How long should a root canal procedure be?

I recently had a root canal completed on my left upper molar (tooth #15) by an endodontist.  From what I understand, this tooth has 3 canals.  I've read that the procedure should take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours and 1-3 visits.

This endodontist completed the job in about 30 minutes!  Is it possible to thoroughly irrigate, clean, remove and fill the canals in that amount of time?  He was already giving his post procedure instructions while putting in a temporary filling.  Within 2 minutes of finishing and placing me upright in the chair, he was out of the room after asking if there were any questions.   How long should the gum and tooth area be sore after this procedure?  I still have to go to my regular dentist for a post and crown.  

[Jerome Tsang, DDS]

Yes, a specialist can be pretty darn fast.  30 minutes is a pretty good speed.  I hear 45 minutes sometimes but 3 canals should be easier than 4 canals.  About 1/2 of the population have 3 canals, the other half 4 canals.  

You should ask the endodontist about the soreness but the endodontist I work with tells me up to 4 weeks depending on the difficulty.  I would imagine you'll be sore for a week or so.