How Long Does The Root Canal Process Typically Take When A Crown Is Involved?

When your tooth is decayed, a root canal may be the only remedy to save your teeth and avoid extraction. A root canal entails removing the tooth’s pulp from an infected or inflamed tooth. The pulp is the innermost chamber of the tooth that contains the blood vessels, nerves, and other tissues that keep your tooth alive and healthy.

When bacteria invade the pulp, it infects these tissues, causing excessive decay and discomfort. The only way to stop the infection and save the tooth is to remove the infected pulp with a root canal. If your dentist has mentioned that you need a root canal, you might wonder what to expect and how long the process takes, especially when a crown is involved. This guide highlights all you need to know about root canals.

Signs you need a root canal

Common signs that your tooth is infected and you need a root canal include:

• Tooth pain when biting down or touching the tooth
• Persistent pain that comes and goes
• Tooth discoloration
• Sensitivity to heat, cold, or sugar
• Chips and cracks on the tooth
• Swollen or sore gums
• Dental abscess

If you have these symptoms, visit our dentist in west San Jose as soon as possible for treatment. The longer you wait, the more the bacteria eat up the tooth and the less the chance of saving the tooth. A root canal may not be possible if the tooth has suffered extreme damage. In this case, tooth extraction may be the best remedy.

Root canal therapy: What to Expect

A root canal is often pretty straightforward. The procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Below is a typical procedure of what to expect:

• The dentist will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area around the infected tooth
• Then, the dentist will isolate and prepare the tooth for the procedure
• The dentist uses a sterilized drill to make a small opening in the tooth to access the pulp. The dentist then uses small dental files to remove the damaged tissues. The inside of the tooth is then rinsed and disinfected thoroughly to kill and prevent re-infection.
• The dentist reshapes the root canals and fills them with a gutta-percha material.
• Next, the dentist uses a temporary filling to seal the tooth to prevent bacteria from recolonizing in the tooth again.
• Lastly, the dentist will place the final restoration like a permanent crown. You get this done in a separate appointment.

Contact our emergency dentist near you if you experience serious symptoms like severe pain, fever, excess bleeding, and persistent swelling after your root canal treatment.

Getting a dental crown

Once your root canal is complete, the dentist will begin preparing the crown. They will trim down a part of the tooth’s enamel to create enough room for the crown to fit normally. Then, the dentist makes impressions of the prepared and other teeth and sends them to a dental lab where they make the permanent crown. The dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.

It takes 2 -3 weeks for the custom-made crown to be ready. Once ready, you’ll return to the dental office for the final fitting procedure. After removing the temporary crown, any adjustments are made as needed. Then, the dentist fixes the permanent crown in place. Your treatment will be complete.

Why is a dental crown necessary?

Placing a crown on the tooth after a root canal is beneficial in several ways, including:

• Improves tooth strength: Severe tooth decay and root canal procedure can leave your tooth fragile. Placing a dental crown improves the tooth’s strength and extends its life.
• Relieves tooth sensitivity: A damaged tooth is likely sensitive to heat and cold. A crown can help shield the tooth from external factors and keep it pain-free.
• Restore your tooth’s color: Tooth decay and a root canal can change the natural color of your tooth. Placing a crown hides these imperfections and gives your tooth a healthier and more beautiful smile.
• Prevents infections: Your tooth is more vulnerable to contaminants and infections after a root canal. A crown helps shield and protect the tooth from bacteria and other contaminants.

How long does a root canal take when a crown is involved?

As we’ve seen, a root canal requires about two dental appointments to clean and seal the tooth with a dental crown. Fortunately, you can complete the entire process in 2 – 4 weeks. Contact our dentist in 95129 to know exactly how long your treatment will take.

Are you interested in Root canal treatment?

For more information about root canal and dental crown treatments, contact Neeshat S. Khan to book your appointment today.