How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

If you’re like most people, when you have a severely infected tooth, you may think that extraction is the only option. However, the team at Parkway Dental Care understands the importance of natural teeth for oral and overall health.

This is why we recommend root canal treatment for infected teeth. This procedure removes the infection while saving the structure of the tooth. Unfortunately, for some patients, this treatment can be expensive. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know about the cost of root canal treatment.

What is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is a restorative dental procedure used instead of extraction for a severely infected tooth. During this treatment, a hole is drilled in the tooth to allow the dentist to access the inside of the tooth.

Then, the infected dental pulp, containing the nerves and blood vessels, will be removed and the inside of the tooth will be disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria. Then, the dentist will fill the tooth with a thermoplastic material called gutta-percha. This will support the tooth from the inside.

Finally, the dentist will seal the tooth with a dental filling. While not required, it is recommended to cover the tooth with a dental crown to protect it from further damage.

Average Cost of a Root Canal

The average cost of root canal treatment ranges from around $1,000 to $1,500. If your dental insurance covers this treatment, your cost may be as low as $200 and if you need additional procedures and/or you don’t have dental insurance, your fee may be as high as $2,000.

Front teeth are the least expensive because they are the easiest to access and usually only have one root. Bicuspids are slightly more expensive because they are behind the front teeth and can have up to 2 roots. Molars are the most expensive due to their location in the jaw and they can have up to 4 roots.

Additional Expenses and Considerations

Typically, the cost of x-rays and other imaging as well as diagnostic testing will be included in the cost of the procedure. However, in some cases, more extensive testing may add to the cost.

Most of the time, a general dentist can perform root canal treatment. However, if the tooth is complex or if the infection/damage is severe, you may be referred to an endodontist. If this happens, the procedure will cost more due to the extensive training the endodontist has undergone.

The standard dental filling to seal the tooth after the procedure is included in the cost. If you decide to get a dental crown, this will add to the cost.

Dental Insurance and Root Canal Coverage

Most dental insurance providers cover 50% to 80% of the cost of root canal treatment if you have met your deductible. However, it is important to note that most dental insurance providers pay very little for a dental crown. Some insurance providers have certain clinical criteria that must be met to qualify for a dental crown.

Financing and Payment Options

Before any treatments are performed, we will explain the costs and payment options. We accept cash, checks, credit/debit, HSA/FSA, and dental financing.

Financing will allow you to split the cost of your procedures into smaller, more budget-friendly payments.

Schedule Your Root Canal Treatment at Parkway Dental Care

If you have a severe toothache combined with swelling and tooth sensitivity, you may need root canal treatment. Schedule your consultation with the team at Parkway Dental Care in Kissimmee, FL today. We will examine the affected tooth and create a treatment plan that will resolve your tooth pain.

Root Canal Treatment FAQs

If we have recommended root canal treatment and you have questions or concerns, feel free to bring them up. We will be happy to address them to give you peace of mind. Below are a few of the most common questions that we get about root canal treatment:

How long does it take to recover from a root canal procedure?

Recovery after a root canal typically takes about a week. Most patients can get back to their normal activities within a few days. If you are still having pain/discomfort and other symptoms after a week, contact the office for emergency dental services.

How long do results from a root canal last?

Root canal treatment should provide permanent relief. However, in some cases, the treated tooth will become infected/inflamed months or even years later. There are several reasons this could happen including failure to clear up the existing infection, new infection, damaged tooth/crown, or waiting too long to have a crown placed on the tooth.

If this happens, it may be possible to save the tooth with re-treatment. However, in some cases, this is known as root canal failure and the tooth will need to be extracted.

What is done during a root canal?

The dentist will first administer anesthesia. Once that has taken effect, a hole will be drilled in the affected tooth and the dentist will use special instruments designed to clean the dental pulp out of the tooth. Then, the tooth will be disinfected and filled with a biocompatible material. Finally, it will be sealed with a dental filling. While not required, it is a good idea to also have a crown placed on the tooth to protect it from future damage.

Can I get a filling instead of a root canal?

No, dental fillings and root canal treatment are not interchangeable procedures. A dental filling is recommended for mild to moderate cavities. Once the tooth is infected, the only way to save it is with root canal treatment.

What are the risks of a root canal?

Root canal treatment is a fairly safe procedure with very few risks. There is a small risk of the dentist leaving behind some of the infection, especially if the tooth is oddly shaped or there is a hidden root. If this happens, an abscess may form on the gum near the affected tooth.

If the tooth is severely damaged and fragile, there is a risk of tooth fracture- which can result in losing the tooth.