Generally speaking most root canals are now done in a single visit with excellent results. This is the norm for our office as well.

yes it's true that root canals can be done in one visit but its not just because of the technology but more so because of the infection of the root, shape , calcification and number of the canals. Some teeth will be treated best in multiple visits . Either way , its best to build up the root canal treated tooth to seal off the canals and prevent bacteria from reinfecting the canals. And yes, the rate of success of root canals are very high nowadays.

The key to a successful root canal is to have the infection under control first. If it is controlled, a one appointment root canal has as much success as a multiple appointment root canal. Prognosis of the final result will vary, due to why you need the root canal, the condition of the tooth (how much intact tooth structure is left), and the skill of the operator for the particular tooth. Another factor to consider is how the tooth is to be restored after the root canal. All root canal teeth should receive a crown and a core (usually with a post). Amalgam and IRM should be avoided in any root canal tooth. Also, I like to wait about a month between root canal and core/crown appointments, as on rare occasion the root canal may need to be retreated, and if so, it is easier to access the canals through a temporary than a core and crown.

Root canal therapy can usually be done in one appointment unless there are signs of a bad infection. The results are better if done in one visit with less postoperative pain. Another appointment is necessary to place a crown to cover the root canal access hole. This hole is what was used by the dentist to access the nerve canals of the tooth and fill them with gutta percha, a rubber-type material. If the access hole is not covered, the tooth has a greater chance of re-infection or fracture. The crown may be placed immediately following the root canal. Using CAD/CAM technology, an all ceramic crown can be made in-house by taking digital impressions with a special camera. This crown is milled out in a special machine and can be created and cemented within an hour. The all ceramic crown has the same strength as a “typical” crown, and is aesthetically pleasing as it can be shaded the same color of your natural teeth.

It is true. Most are done in one setting with good results

This is a great question. For most, not all root canals, depending on the infection or problem, it is actually better to do them in one visit. The root canal technology in the past 15 years, allows for all but the most difficult root canals to be completed in 1-2 hours depending on the number of canals and tooth. It is equipment intensive with expensive technology but results in the very well done root canal treatment that allow for healing and saving the tooth. With great anesthesia, this is a painless procedure that is mostly boring for the patient. Its a good idea to bring in your IPod or other music listening device for this appointment. It is also very important that the crown build up or post and build up that seals the open hole in the tooth be done same day as well as long as the root canals have been sealed. This ensures the bacteria cannot re-enter the canals and cause reinfection. Placing temporary material to seal the hole in the tooth is only good for a few days and is not recommended for longer than a week. This does not complete the care for the tooth but stabilizes the tooth for healing or pain relief. Usually, a crown is needed to restore the tooth if it was broken down previously. Your dentist can answer this question based on your tooth and previous history. If you are in Southern California, my practice can be found atwww.WhittierDentalOffice.com . Best of Luck, Dr. John Sudick USC 1985