More than 15 million teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal treatment, or endodontic treatment.
After all, who wants to live with a missing or compromised tooth? Root canal treatment is an effective dental procedure that treats and saves a tooth with infected or damaged pulp. Furthermore, it alleviates severe toothache, prevents the spread of infection, and preserves tooth function and aesthetics. Now, the most prominent question remains - "How much does a root canal cost?"
In this blog, we'll answer all your root canal cost-related questions, including how much is a root canal, and how much does a root canal cost with insurance? Further, we'll answer how much is a root canal without insurance and what is the most convenient way to pay for root canal treatment?
Average Cost of a Root Canal
Typically, the root canal cost without insurance ranges from $1000 to $1600. However, the cost of root canal with insurance can be considerably lower, ranging from $213 to $640. Although, this only involves the root canal procedure, there are other factors that must be considered.
| Cost Factor | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Dental Examination | $50 - $200 |
| X-Rays | $25 - $200 |
| Root Canal Therapy | $500 - $2,500 |
| Anesthesia | $50 - $200 |
| Post-Operative Medications | $10 - $50 |
| Dental Crown (if needed) | $500 - $1,500 |
Root Canal Treatment Cost: With and Without Insurance
In this section, we'll answer the questions - "How much does a root canal cost with insurance?" and "How much is a root canal out-of-pocket?" in detail.
Cost of Root Canal with Insurance
As we've previously mentioned, the cost of root canal with insurance ranges from $213 to $640. However, several factors can further impact the root canal price with insurance.
Keep in Mind:
- Typically, you may have to pay a monthly premium and a yearly deductible under insurance.
- Generally, insurance covers a percentage of the costs. This means you still have to pay a fair share of the cost.
- For maximum coverage, you may have to consult an in-network dentist or specialist.
Root Canal Cost without Insurance
The average cost of root canal without insurance usually ranges from $1000 to $1600. Again, the cost may vary based on influencing factors.
Keep in Mind:
- You have to pay the entire cost of root canal if you don't have insurance.
- Costs may vary based on your location, the complexity of the procedure, and the experience of your dental provider.
- You may find alternatives like flexible payment plans to conveniently manage your root canal and crown cost without insurance.
A Breakdown of Root Canal Cost With and Without Insurance
| Cost Element | With Dental Insurance | Without Dental Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Examination | Covered or Reduced | $50 - $200 |
| X-Rays | Covered or Reduced | $25 - $200 |
| Root Canal Procedure | Co-Pay or Partial Coverage | $500 - $2,000 |
| Anesthesia | Co-Pay or Partial Coverage | $50 - $200 |
| Post- Operative Medications | Covered or Reduced | $10 - $50 |
| Dental Crown (If needed) | Co-Pay or Partial Coverage | $500 - $1500 |
| Additional Procedures | Co-Pay or Partial Coverage | Cost Varies |
| Note: Dental insurance plans vary, and coverage, co-pays, and deductibles may differ considerably. |
How Much Does Root Canal Cost: Phase-Wise Breakdown
Patients often ask how much are root canals and expect a definitive answer. However, it depends on various aspects, including the preliminary assessment and the need for restoration among others. Moreover, root canal without crown costs significantly less. If you're wondering about the cost of root canal and crown without insurance, here's an average phase-wise price breakdown:
1st Phase: Preliminary Assessment
- Dental Examination: $50 - $200
- X-Rays: $25 - $200
- Consultation and Diagnosis: Varies
2nd Phase: Root Canal Treatment
- Root Canal Procedure: $500 - $2500
- Anesthesia: $50 - $200
- Post-Operative Medications: $10 - $ 50
3rd Phase: Restoration
- Dental Crown: $500 - $1,500
- Additional Procedure: Varies
Average Cost Range of Root Canal Procedure by Region
Considering the cost of living, local dental fees, and other factors, the cost of a root canal procedure can vary greatly. Here's the average region-wise cost of a root canal:
► Northeastern United States
This region includes major cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C. Considering the standard of living in these prominent cities, it's no surprise that the cost of root canals will be on the higher end. Typically, the average cost of a root canal ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 in these cities. However, there are other determining factors that can influence the cost further.
► Western United States
The Western United States is home to cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. The average cost of a root canal procedure in these cities more or less ranges from $800 - $2,000. However, the dentist or specialist you choose to get the procedure done from may also impact the cost.
► Southern United States
The average cost of a root canal procedure in the Southern United States spans from $700 to $1,800. This region encompasses major cities like Atlanta, Miami, and Houston. The extent of the procedure may also impact the price, among other factors.
► Midwestern United States
Major cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and St. Louis fall under the Midwestern United States. The average cost of a root canal procedure in these cities ranges anywhere from $700 to $1,800. However, the overall cost of the root canal may vary vastly depending on whether or not you need a crown, among other reasons.
Root Canal Price Based On Tooth Type
The cost of a root canal treatment depends on the type of tooth being treated. For instance, Molars are located at the back of the mouth, have multiple roots, and may require a more complex process. Hence, the cost of the root canal may be higher. Let's look at the average range of root canal cost based on the tooth type:
Type of Tooth Approximate Cost Range Incisors (Front Teeth) $500 - $1,500 Canines (Front Teeth) $500 - $1,500 Premolars (Bicuspids) $800 - $1,800 Molars (Back Teeth) $1,000 - $2,500 Wisdom Teeth $225 - $600 (per tooth)
Influencing Factors of Root Canal Treatment Cost
- Severity of Dental Issue: The condition of the tooth and the complexity of the root canal can impact the cost by and large. A severely infected or damaged tooth may require extensive treatment. Consequently, the cost will be higher.
- Choice of Dentist or Endodontist: The expertise level and experience of the dental specialist performing the root canal can also influence the cost. More experienced practitioners may charge higher fees. Although it's wise to opt for an experienced dentist, if feasible.
- Additional Procedures: Every so often, additional procedures are required with the root canal. These include retreatment, apicoectomies, or the placement of the dental crown. These procedures can add to the overall cost.
- Dental Insurance: The extent of your dental insurance coverage can significantly affect your out-of-pocket expenses. Dental insurance may cover from 20% to 80% percent of your root canal cost, provided that you're eligible.
- Preoperative Diagnostic Tests: The need for diagnostic tests, including X-rays, and 3D imaging, can also add to the overall costs of the root canal cost. These are unavoidable in most cases.
- Choice of Materials: The overall cost also varies depending on the material used for the procedure, such as the filling material or the type of dental crown. High-quality materials are naturally more expensive.
- Emergency Treatment: If you need an emergency root canal, especially outside of regular office hours, it may cost more.
When Should You Consider a Root Canal?
Although it's best to consult a dentist to determine whether or not you need a root canal, there are several signs to look out for:
- Excruciating pain while chewing or biting
- Tender or swollen gums
- Pimples on the gums
- Chipped or cracked tooth
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
- Darkening or dark decay
What is the Cheapest Price for a Root Canal?
As we've previously discussed, the price of a root canal differs due to various influencing factors. Nevertheless, in the USA, the cheapest price for a root canal might start around $500 to $1,000 without insurance. Provided that the root canal procedure is simple and uncomplicated and typically for a front tooth.
Managing the Cost of Root Canal with Flexible Payment Options
Delaying the root canal treatment or avoiding it isn't a wise choice. So, if your dental insurance doesn't cover a major portion of your root canal treatment, don't lose hope, or your tooth. There are other ways to manage the treatment cost, such as dental payment plans.
Many dentists provide their patients the option to pay for their root canal treatment in manageable monthly installments. They are able to do this through a payment plan software like Denefits. And it poses a great option for patients to afford root canal costs without exhausting their savings. What's even better is that Denefits has a NO CREDIT CHECK Policy, and has a 95% approval rate. So, you don't have to worry about your eligibility.
Conclusion
Root canal treatment is a crucial dental procedure that saves millions of teeth annually. While the cost varies depending on myriad factors, the cost generally spans from $1,000 to $1,600 without insurance. Although insurance can reduce costs, out-of-pocket expenses remain.
Nevertheless, root canal procedures are unavoidable, and there are ways to manage the cost they incur. One such way is by searching for dental specialists who offer flexible payment options to patients through Denefits. This way, you can save your tooth with a prompt root canal treatment without depleting your savings.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) About Root Canal Cost
Q1. How much does a root canal and crown cost without insurance?
Root canal and crown costs without insurance vary depending on several influencing factors. Typically, it spans from $1,000 to $2,500.
Q2. What is the cost of teeth replacement?
Replacement teeth cost varies by type. For instance, dental Implants cost anywhere between $1,000 and $3,000 per tooth. Meanwhile, the cost of Dentures spans from $1,000 to $3,000, and dental bridges cost somewhere between $500 to $1,200 per tooth.
Q3. How much is a root canal out-of-pocket?
A root canal out-of-pocket cost typically ranges from $500 to $1,600. The exact cost is determined based on various factors, including the location, dental specialist's experience, and the extent of the procedure.
