Treatments

How long does a root canal take?

Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.

Status: Approved

Short answer: Usually one or two office visits. The ADA and the American Association of Endodontists both say root canal treatment typically takes one or two appointments, depending on the tooth and its condition. Afterward, the tooth needs a filling or crown to protect it. The AAE says you'll likely stay numb for two to four hours after treatment.

Why it varies

The AAE says the number of visits depends on the condition of your tooth. Some teeth have more canals or more infection to clear, and molars are generally more complex to treat than front teeth.

What happens during treatment

The ADA describes these steps:

  1. X-rays to see the shape of the canals
  2. local anesthetic to numb the tooth
  3. a small protective sheet (dental dam) to keep the area clean and dry
  4. an opening in the top of the tooth
  5. removing the infected pulp and cleaning the canals
  6. filling and sealing the canals
  7. a temporary filling, then a crown or permanent filling at a later visit

After the visit

The ADA says the tooth may feel sensitive for a few days. The AAE says most people can go back to school or work the same day, and you shouldn't eat until the numbness is completely gone.

If swelling spreads toward your eye or neck, or you have trouble breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Otherwise, if you have swelling, call your dentist right away.

At Indy Smile Group

All three of our offices do root canals on all teeth in-house. Your dentist will go over how many visits your tooth is likely to need. Our root canal aftercare page explains what to do afterward. We're in-network with Delta Dental, Anthem, Humana, Liberty Dental and CareSource. Through the Connection Dental and Zelis networks we're also in-network with many PPO plans from Cigna, MetLife, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Ameritas, Principal, Sun Life, GEHA and UMR. We accept Indiana Medicaid and Medicare dental plans. Coverage depends on your plan. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before any treatment, including emergency treatment. See our root canal pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy.

Next step

Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.

Frequently asked questions

Does a root canal hurt?
The AAE says patients get anesthesia, so it isn't more painful than a routine procedure such as a filling. The tooth may be sore or numb afterward, with mild discomfort for a few days.

Can I go to work after a root canal?
The AAE says most patients can return to school or work right after.

Why do I need a crown afterward?
The ADA and AAE say the tooth is restored with a crown or filling to protect it and bring back full function.

Sources

  1. ADA MouthHealthy – Root Canals
  2. American Association of Endodontists – What Is a Root Canal?

Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)

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