How Much Does A Root Canal Cost?

A root canal is a standard endodontic procedure completed by a general dentist or endodontist—a specialist exclusively performing root canals and other procedures related to the nerve of the tooth—that’s designed to treat a deep tooth infection by removing infected nerve tissue.

Our teeth are made of an enamel layer on the outside, a second layer of dentin and a soft inside core that extends into the root to the jawbone, says Lana Rozenberg, D.D.S, a cosmetic dentist in New York. The core contains dental pulp, which consists of nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue.

“When decay makes its way into the soft core, the pulp may become inflamed or infected and require a root canal,” she explains. “You can think of a root canal as a tiny Roto-Rooter that cleans out decay and preserves the infected tooth.”

Fortunately, a root canal is a long-term solution to a damaged tooth. In fact, teeth typically survive more than 11 years after this procedure, according to research from Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Dentistry^[1]Root Canal Treatment Survival Analysis in National Dental PBRN Practices. Journal of Dental Research. Accessed 5/23/2022. .

Who Needs a Root Canal?

“If you have a damaged tooth with a dead or sick nerve, your dentist may suggest a root canal to save it,” says Greg Grillo, D.D.S., a practicing dentist in the Okanogan Valley in Washington. An X-ray determines whether the tooth has deep decay. Here’s a closer look at the causes and symptoms.

Causes

There are several reasons your tooth may sustain damage and warrant a root canal, including extensive decay, repeated dental procedures on the tooth, a faulty crown or cracks or chips on the tooth. An injury to the tooth may also lead to pulp damage and require a root canal even if there are no visible cracks or chips.

Symptoms

You might have already experienced some symptoms like pain in the infected tooth or swelling around the gum, says Dr. Grillo. Or you may show no symptoms and be surprised to discover the damage after your dentist performs an X-ray.

Many physical symptoms typically don’t start until the problem is advanced and, in turn, “possibly more costly to repair, making it so important to see your dentist regularly for preventative care visits,” adds Dr. Rozenberg.

The cost of a root canal depends on various factors, including which tooth is affected, the type of dental office you visit for the treatment and more. Check whether your procedure will be done at a general or specialty practice, and what type of insurance, if any, you may have. (Specialists may charge more than general dentists.)

Root Canal Cost With Insurance

The total cost for those with insurance depends on additional factors like location, their specific insurance coverage and whether the dentist is an in-network provider, says Steffan Scherer, D.D.S. an endodontist at Full Smile Endodontics in Amarillo, Texas. An in-network provider has contracted with your insurance company to provide medical care, often at negotiated or discounted rates.

Oftentimes, root canals require several appointments. The procedure length depends on the severity of the infection, according to Ghaznia Khan, D.D.S., a general dentist in Fort Worth, Texas.

“Typically, we can get into the tooth and clean out the nerve with a series of medications so the fibers are deadened and infectious bacteria is removed,” she says. “It is a procedure with minimal drilling and pressure. After administering the anesthesia, you really should not be in pain.”

Depending on your insurance situation, you may be on the hook for a copay as a percentage of your total bill depending on your insurance plan. With insurance, you can expect to pay the following rates:

• Front tooth: $200- $1,100
• Bicuspid (mid-mouth): $200-$1,250
• Molar: $300-$1,472

“The overall cost can range from $500 to more than $1,000 depending on your situation,” says Ryan Tyng, D.M.D., of Crossroads Family Dentistry in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Root Canal Cost Without Insurance

If you don’t have dental insurance, you can expect to pay much more for a root canal. The cost without insurance varies based on the extent of the procedure. According to the ADA Survey of Dental Fees, the average cost of a root canal without insurance can range from^[2]Survey of Dental Fees. ADA. Accessed 5/23/2022. :

• Front tooth: $620 to $1,100
• Bicuspid (mid-mouth): $705 to $1,250
• Molar: $870 to $1,472

Other factors, like your location may also come into play. For example, if you live in New York City, you may pay more for your root canal than someone in a rural town in Iowa. Additional costs could apply, too, such as X-rays or a dental crown that’s required to complete the procedure. Many root canals require a crown to protect the tooth which adds to the total cost.

If you find you need a root canal but can’t afford the cost, you likely have options. “You may find lower-cost options at a community dental clinic,” says Dr. Grillo. “You could also discuss payment plans with your dental office and spread out the cost of treatment.”

You can also explore outside your dentist’s office. “Dental schools offer reduced price treatment, and some hospitals have dental residency programs where prices are lower than those at private practices,” explains Paul Springs, D.M.D., a prosthodontist at Timeless Dentistry in New York.

Even though a root canal can be expensive, it’s important you get one if your dentist recommends it. “Failure to do so can lead to lingering pain when eating, sensitivity to hot and cold [food and drinks], and tender and inflamed gums,” explains Dr. Scherer. “Since oral health affects our overall health, the untreated tooth can cause the infection to spread to the jaw, brain, blood and entire body.”

“If you skip a root canal, the tooth will eventually need to be removed and an implant will be necessary to restore it,” adds Dr. Rozenberg. This procedure is far more invasive and expensive than a standard root canal. For this reason, you should see a dentist on a regular basis and visit them as soon as you experience any pain.

“Everyone should see their dentist for regular check-ups, X-rays and routine cleanings,” says Mitchell Josephs, D.D.S, a general, cosmetic and implant dentist in Palm Beach, Florida. “If there are any symptoms or trauma to the teeth, you should make an appointment immediately,” he adds.