Cost of a Root Canal: What You Need To Know

Experiencing severe tooth pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, swollen gums, or discoloration of your tooth? These could be signs that you need a root canal.

We’ll explore why a root canal may be needed, the signs that indicate it’s necessary, and how much it costs. Additionally, we will talk about whether insurance covers the cost, alternative options to a root canal, and how you can save money on this dental treatment.

Stay tuned to learn everything you need to know about the cost of a root canal.

What Is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure in which the pulp of your tooth, including the nerves and blood vessels, is removed and the tooth is filled and sealed. The pulp is the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. It is necessary to remove the pulp when it becomes inflamed or infected.

During a root canal, your endodontist will numb the area around the tooth to avoid causing any discomfort. They will then drill an opening into the tooth to reach the pulp. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth will be cleaned, disinfected, and filled. A crown is usually placed over the tooth to protect it and restore full function. The crown procedure is usually completed with the general dentist. The entire procedure typically takes two to three visits to complete.

Why You May Need a Root Canal

A root canal and its costs become necessary when one of the symptoms advances to the point where it causes severe pain, affecting dental health and requiring immediate intervention.

Some signs that you may need a root canal include:

• Severe tooth pain while eating or drinking hot or cold foods
• Tooth pain that wakes you up at night
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the tooth
• Tooth discoloration or darkening

The process of tooth decay, if left untreated, can lead to further complications, and if not treated it can result in the loss of the tooth. Here are some of the potential complications that can occur:

Infection or Inflammation of the Tooth Pulp

The tooth pulp contains nerves and blood vessels that provide nutrients to the tooth. Infection or inflammation of the pulp, known as pulpitis, is a common reason for needing a root canal. While the cost of a root canal sometimes deters patients from receiving treatment, without it, the infection can spread and cause severe pain, abscess, or tooth loss.

Deep Tooth Decay

A large cavity that reaches the tooth pulp requires a root canal to remove the decayed area, clean the tooth, and prevent infection. The dentist will clean out the decay and fill and seal the tooth to prevent further damage.

Traumatic Tooth Injury

A hard blow or knock to a tooth can damage the pulp, even if the tooth does not appear broken. A root canal could be necessary to clean out the injured pulp tissue and prevent infection from setting in. The dentist will then monitor the tooth to ensure proper healing and no abscess develops before completing the tooth restoration.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A crack or fracture in the tooth that exposes or damages the pulp requires a root canal to remove the pulp tissue and clean the inner parts of the tooth. The dentist will then fill and seal the tooth to prevent infection before restoring the tooth with a crown to protect it from further damage or fracture.

If you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, it is best to see your endodontist as soon as possible for an exam and to discuss your treatment options if a root canal is recommended.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost Without Insurance?

Consultation and Diagnosis

The first step in the root canal process is a consultation to determine if the procedure is necessary and the best course of action for that individual. The endodontist will examine the tooth, take X-rays, and review your symptoms and medical history. The consultation typically costs between $200 to $500, depending on whether a CBCT image is needed. 

The benefits of 3D CBCT images are so vast in not only diagnosis but also proper treatment planning. More than likely, if a root canal is needed, your provider will take a CBCT. A CBCT can prevent unnecessary treatment, change the treatment plan, and allow the provider to see additional difficult-to-find anatomy within your tooth, which helps prevent endodontic failure. All of these things help you save money in the long run.  

Treatment Plan

If a root canal is recommended, the dentist will develop a comprehensive treatment plan. The plan will outline the steps and timeframe for completion of the root canal and any follow-up restorative work needed, such as a crown. The treatment plan allows you to understand fully what is involved in the procedure and determine the total cost of the root canal.

Root Canal Therapy

The root canal procedure, also known as endodontic therapy, involves removing the nerve tissue and pulp within the tooth and root canals. The dentist will numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia, drill into the tooth to access the tooth’s canals, and then clean, shape, and fill them. 

A temporary filling is placed until a permanent crown or restoration is completed. 

The cost of a root canal averages between $1,000 to $3,000 per tooth, depending on factors like the type of tooth and the dentist performing the procedure. 

Restorative Work and Follow-Up

A tooth that has had a root canal procedure will require a permanent restoration to protect it from fracturing. Usually, a dental crown is placed over the tooth. The cost of a crown is typically between $500 to $3,000. One to two follow-up visits may be needed to ensure proper healing and restoration. Additional X-rays may also be required, costing $20 to $250 in total.

In summary, the total cost of a root canal can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for a molar. The good news is that root canal therapy has a success rate of over 95% in saving a tooth that may otherwise need to be extracted. With proper care, a tooth with a root canal can last a lifetime.

Alternative Options to a Root Canal

We believe that saving your natural tooth should always be your first option. However, In cases where a root canal may not be feasible, alternative options like tooth extraction performed by oral surgeons or other dental providers can offer viable treatment pathways to address dental concerns effectively. After an extraction is completed, there are several options for replacement, including dental implants, bridges, or removable options like partial dentures. 

Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth, often recommended in cases of severe tooth destruction, dental emergencies, or when preserving the tooth is not feasible despite available dental benefits. 

A simple extraction of a single tooth can cost usually from $75 to $200, whereas a surgical extraction of an impacted wisdom tooth can cost between $225 and $1000.

Tooth extraction may be a less expensive alternative initially, but it frequently results in more serious long-term effects than a root canal. A root canal allows you to preserve your natural tooth, which is typically the greatest option for your dental health. 

Extracting a tooth involves permanently losing it, which can cause bone loss and shifting of nearby teeth, altering your bite and general dental health and perhaps resulting in further costs with dental implants or bridges.

Dental Implants

Dental implants serve as a way to replace missing teeth, offering a long-term solution for tooth preservation. By integrating with the jawbone, dental implants provide stability and functionality. They help in managing tooth loss, improving overall oral health, and restoring confidence in one’s smile. The success rate of dental implants is high, making them a reliable option for individuals seeking durable solutions for their dental concerns.

Implants provide the most natural-looking and long-lasting results but at a significant upfront cost, often $3,000-$6,000 per implant. The total cost will depend on factors like the material used and the number of implants needed. A lot of times, that cost does not include the crown that has to be placed on top of that implant. 

Dental Bridge

Dental bridges offer a restorative solution to a missing tooth as well.

These bridges act as a way to fill the gap left by missing teeth, helping maintain proper alignment and preventing surrounding teeth from shifting. By bridging the gap, they contribute to a balanced bite and improved chewing efficiency. Dental bridges are effective in restoring a natural-looking smile, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

A dental bridge that replaces a single missing tooth may cost around $2500, while one that replaces two adjacent missing teeth could cost around $5000 or more.

Given the lifespan and maintenance requirements, a root canal-treated tooth may be a more cost-effective and long-term solution in comparison to a dental bridge. Here’s why:

• Dental bridges need meticulous care, like flossing beneath them and regular check-ups to keep both the supporting teeth and the bridge healthy. Poor oral hygiene can cause issues like decay or gum disease.
• A root canal-treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care, while a dental bridge usually lasts 5-15 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene, wear, and bridge materials.
• A root canal focuses on the one tooth being treated while a dental bridge may compromise the adjacent teeth.

Your dentist, with a thorough awareness of your dental health, may provide specialized recommendations based on your specific dental needs. This personalized advice considers your oral health history, existing dental conditions, overall health concerns, lifestyle habits, and treatment choices, ensuring that the dental care you receive is customized to your preferences and health.

Saving on Root Canal Costs

Cost Comparison Between Root Canal and Other Dental Services

When comparing dental procedures such as tooth extraction, dental implants, and dental bridges to root canals, numerous factors are taken into account, including cost and long-term benefits.

Tooth Extraction vs. Root Canal

Tooth extraction is initially the most affordable choice, costing $75 to $200, but it ignores the long-term consequences of losing a natural tooth. Subsequent costs for replacements like implants or bridges, ranging from $2500 to $6000, make extraction less cost-effective than a root canal in the long run.

Dental Implants vs. Root Canal

Many individuals find dental implants to be an attractive option due to their lifespan and ability to fit in perfectly with natural teeth. Nevertheless, the costs associated with these implants are high, ranging from $3000 to $6000. This price includes both the implant itself and the necessary surgery for implantation but does not always include the crown restoration that has to come after the implant has been integrated. 

Also, dental implants often need extra treatments like bone grafting, raising costs and making treatment more complex. In contrast, root canals, costing $1000 to $5000 per tooth don’t usually need additional surgeries, offering a cost-effective way to treat dental problems while keeping natural teeth intact.

Dental Bridges vs. Root Canal

Dental bridges range from $2500 to $5000 or more. Bridges can successfully replace lost teeth and restore the ability to chew, but for the bridge to be supported, nearby healthy teeth must first be prepared for the procedure as well. This could lead to additional work being needed on adjacent teeth, raising the cost even further. 

Why a Root Canal Is The Most Cost-Effective Option

For several convincing reasons, a root canal is considered the most economical procedure. First off, a root canal may prove to be more cost-effective in the long term even though it initially costs more than operations like tooth extraction. The main reason for this is that a root canal keeps the original tooth intact, avoiding the need for pricey substitutes like bridges or dental implants.

Also, a tooth that has had a root canal repaired can survive a lifetime if it is taken care of with routine dental exams and excellent oral hygiene habits. Its endurance makes it a wise investment in long-term oral health because it gradually lowers the frequency of dental procedures and the costs related to them.

All things considered, a root canal is the most economical choice for maintaining oral health, even though it may be more expensive initially due to its capacity to save the natural tooth, long-term durability, and decreased need for additional interventions. 

You can experience personalized root canal therapy at Ballantyne Endodontics, where the collaborative approach allows you to discuss tooth sensitivity causes, leading to personalized treatment plans for a comfortable and effective dental experience. 

Schedule your appointment today to benefit from our expertise and foster a trusting relationship with us at Ballantyne Endodontics. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a root canal?

The average cost of a root canal can range from $800 to $5,000, depending on various factors such as the location of the tooth, the restoration needed, and the type of specialist performing the procedure.

What factors can affect the cost of a root canal?

The cost of a root canal can be affected by several factors, including the location of the tooth, the complexity of the procedure, the restoration needed afterward, and the experience of the specialist.

Is the cost of a root canal covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of a root canal, typically around 50%, but this can vary depending on the insurance provider and specific plan. It is important to check with your insurance company to understand your coverage.

Are there any alternative options that may be less expensive than a root canal?

Usually, the only alternative to root canal treatment is extraction. Extraction can lead to other complications such as remaining teeth drifting. Even though extraction seems like the cheaper option at first, it may be very costly to restore the area with a dental implant or a bridge. 

Is it worth the cost to get a root canal?

While the cost of a root canal may seem high, it is often the most effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth. Without a root canal, the tooth may need to be extracted, which can have its own set of potential complications and expenses.