How Long Does a Root Canal Take To Heal?
Healing from a root canal procedure typically occurs within a few days to a week. During this period, patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort, including sensitivity, swelling, or soreness in the treated area. These symptoms are a normal part of the body's healing process as inflammation subsides and surrounding tissues begin to recover. It's also common to feel slight pressure when biting down during the initial days. Most of this discomfort gradually lessens and resolves without the need for further intervention, especially when patients follow proper post-procedure care instructions.
Although the majority of patients feel back to normal within a week, full healing of the internal tooth structure can take longer, even after symptoms have subsided. The treated tooth is often restored with a crown or filling to protect it from further damage and to restore function. If pain persists beyond a week or worsens, or if swelling increases, it's important to contact your dentist to rule out infection or complications. With good oral hygiene and follow-up care, root canal-treated teeth can remain healthy and functional for many years.
