How much is a root canal?

Asked by: Prof. Angela Effertz DDS  |  Last update: August 1, 2025
Score: 5/5 (26 votes)

Price and Procedure Explained. The national average cost for a root canal is $1,165, but can range between $500-$1,800. Learn more about what you should expect to pay and how the procedure works. The term “root canal" is often associated with pain or bad dental experiences.

What happens if I can't afford a root canal?

A dental clinic

Many communities have free dental clinics for people without insurance who cannot afford care at a dental practice. Look online for a local dental society or university dental school, call them, and ask about programs for free dental care.

Does insurance cover root canals?

Will dental insurance cover my root canal procedure? Whether or not your insurance will cover your root canal procedure will depend on your particular plan, but it is common for dental insurance plans to cover 50% - 80% of the cost of a root canal after the deductible has been met.

Is it cheaper to pull a tooth or root canal?

While both procedures aim to address dental health issues, they vary significantly in terms of treatment approach and financial impact. A root canal usually costs between $800 and $1,500 per tooth, whereas a tooth extraction ranges from $135 to $500 or more, depending on complexity.

When is it too late for a root canal?

If the tooth is completely cracked in half or the infection is so bad there's not much tooth left, it may be too late for a root canal.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

27 related questions found

Do they put you to sleep for a root canal?

Generally, local anesthesia is used for the procedure to keep the patient awake and comfortable for the duration. Yet, still many people have a great amount of apprehension when it comes to root canal treatment - and those with dental anxiety may require more to get through the procedure. Sedation endodontics can help.

Do I need a crown after a root canal?

Needing a crown after a root canal depends highly on the location of the tooth in the mouth—teeth towards the back of the mouth like molars and premolars are needed more for chewing, and generally require crowns, where incisors or canines which aren't needed for chewing don't always require crowns.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover root canals?

Both our high-option and standard-option plans offer the comprehensive dental benefits you and your family need, including: in-network covered preventive care paid in full, including up to three cleanings a year. no deductible for in-network services, such as fillings and root canals.

How long do root canals last?

Breaking down the root canal data

Teeth that receive a root canal, and a subsequent filling and crown last about 20 years. Teeth that receive either a filling or a crown after a root canal last around 11 years. Teeth that receive no restorative work after a root canal only last about 6.5 years.

How do poor people get their teeth fixed?

A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) can provide dental services for you or your family, regardless of your ability to pay. Services are offered on a sliding scale based on your income.

Is there a cheaper alternative to a root canal?

Truthfully speaking, however, an extraction is a more uncomfortable procedure than a root canal. Getting a tooth extracted is often cheaper than a root canal treatment, but most dentists strongly advice against doing that since there are serious consequences for leaving a gap in the mouth unaddressed.

Can I get a free root canal?

Depending on where you live, you may have access to public clinics that are run by local or state health departments. These clinics are usually subsidized by the government, which is why they can offer dental services that are either free or on a sliding scale.

Do dentists do payment plans?

Dentists may have various payment options, including zero-interest plans, extended payment terms, or third-party financing arrangements. Understanding the available options will help you choose the best plan for your needs.

Are root canals overpriced?

The primary reason why root canals are so expensive is due to the complexity and the skill required for the procedure. A highly skilled dentist or endodontist is needed. The procedure involves intricate work with a high level of precision and is typically long, often requiring multiple dental visits.

How can I afford a root canal?

Many dental offices will allow you to finance your root canal or pay the cost in installments through a payment plan. Contact your dental practitioner's office to find out if they offer these options, or to see what other payment alternatives may be available.

How much should a root canal cost without insurance?

Root Canal Cost for One Tooth

On the other hand, the cost of the root canal procedure for one molar tooth is around $1,000 – $1,400 while a Bicuspid tooth root canal procedure costs around $700- $1,000 The thing with root canal procedure is the higher the number of teeth, the higher the cost.

How can I get a pain free root canal?

To ensure that root canal treatments are painless, dentists use a variety of efficient pain management strategies: Local anesthesia. A topical anesthetic is used to alleviate pain during root canal treatment. Before beginning the procedure, the dentist in Whitefield provides a local anesthetic to the affected tooth.

What is the most dental insurance will cover?

Understanding Dental Insurance Coverage
  • 100% for preventive care including cleanings, exams, and X-rays.
  • 80% for basic procedures, such as fillings.
  • 50% for major procedures, such as crowns and dentures.

What if I can't afford a crown after a root canal?

If you are unable to get a crown after a root canal, there are non-crown options that can be considered for the long-term. These options include using an inlay or onlay to cover the tooth, which can provide similar protection as a crown.

How to remove a tooth root at home?

Steps to Take When Root Stuck

Do Not Attempt Self-Removal: Trying to extract the root at home can lead to infection or worsen the situation. It is essential to seek professional help from dentists who are experienced in handling such cases.

Should I get a root canal or extraction?

Is a Root Canal Worth It? The resounding answer is yes. Root canal therapy involves lower overall cost, less discomfort, and less time spent in the dentist's chair. Though tooth extraction may look like an attractive option initially, it's clear that root canal treatment is the ideal treatment option.

How much does it cost to be put to sleep for a root canal?

How much does Sedation Dentistry Cost? As of 2024, the cost of general anesthesia to perform sleep dentistry range from $400 to $600 per hour. This includes the cost of drugs administered and recovery time. On average, the patient can expect to spend about $500/hr plus the dentistry treatment rendered.

What are signs you need a root canal?

What are signs I may need a root canal?
  • Tooth pain that doesn't go away. Lots of things make your teeth hurt. ...
  • Pressure hurts. If your tooth hurts when you eat or touch it, it may mean something damaged the nerves around your tooth pulp.
  • Swollen gums. ...
  • Pimple on your gums. ...
  • Swollen jaw. ...
  • Discolored tooth. ...
  • Loose tooth.

Can I drive home after a root canal?

Patients may feel slightly dizzy, disoriented, or have difficulty focusing after the procedure. This raises the question of whether driving after a root canal is a good idea. So, can and should you drive after a root canal? Driving after a root canal is safe, provided you don't feel light-headed.