If you’ve been told you may need a root canal, one of the first questions that likely comes to mind is how much does a root canal cost—followed closely by whether your insurance will help cover it.

These are completely reasonable concerns. Dental treatment shouldn’t feel confusing or unpredictable. Below, we break down what affects root canal pricing, how insurance coverage typically works, and why early treatment is often the most cost-effective decision you can make for your oral health.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of a root canal can vary depending on several factors. There is no single flat price, because every tooth and situation is different.

Factors That Affect Root Canal Cost

  • Tooth location (front teeth vs. molars)

  • Number of canals inside the tooth

  • Severity of infection

  • Existing restorations, such as crowns

  • Whether retreatment is required

In general, molars tend to cost more than front teeth because they have more canals and are more complex to treat.

Why Root Canal Treatment Is Often More Affordable Than Alternatives

While cost is important, it’s also helpful to look at the long-term picture.

Root canal treatment allows you to:

  • Save your natural tooth

  • Avoid extraction

  • Prevent the need for implants or bridges

  • Maintain normal chewing and alignment

Tooth replacement options are often significantly more expensive and require multiple procedures over time. In many cases, a root canal is the most economical and conservative solution.

Does Insurance Cover Root Canal Treatment?

In many cases, yes. Most dental insurance plans partially or fully cover root canal treatment, especially when it is medically necessary to treat infection or pain.

What Insurance Coverage Typically Depends On

  • Your specific plan

  • Annual maximum benefits

  • Deductibles and co-insurance

  • Whether a crown is needed afterward

Some plans cover a percentage of the procedure, while others may cover a set amount. Our team helps patients understand their benefits before treatment so there are no surprises.

Is a Crown Included in the Cost of a Root Canal?

A root canal and a crown are separate procedures, and insurance may cover them differently.

  • The root canal treats infection inside the tooth

  • The crown restores strength and function afterward

Not every tooth requires a crown, but back teeth often do due to chewing forces. Coverage for crowns varies by insurance plan.

Can a Root Canal Be Done Through a Crown?

Yes. In many cases, a root canal through a crown is possible. This allows the existing crown to remain in place, which can help reduce overall costs.

Your endodontist will determine whether the crown can be preserved based on its condition.

Why Timing Can Affect Cost

Delaying treatment can allow infection to worsen, which may:

  • Increase complexity

  • Require additional visits

  • Raise overall costs

  • Reduce the chance of saving the tooth

If you’re searching for answers about cost, it’s often best to schedule an evaluation sooner rather than later.

Are There Payment Options If I Don’t Have Insurance?

For patients without insurance, many practices offer:

  • Payment plans

  • Financing options

  • Transparent estimates before treatment

Our goal is to help patients make informed decisions without unnecessary stress.

Why Seeing an Endodontist Matters for Cost and Outcomes

Endodontists specialize in diagnosing tooth pain and performing root canal procedures efficiently and precisely. Specialized care often means:

  • Fewer complications

  • Reduced need for retreatment

  • Better long-term success

That expertise can save both time and money in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a root canal more expensive than a filling?

Yes, but it treats a much deeper issue. A filling cannot resolve nerve infection.

Does insurance always cover root canals?

Coverage varies by plan, but many plans provide partial or full coverage.

Can I delay treatment until my insurance renews?

Delaying can increase pain and risk further damage. It’s best to discuss timing with your provider.

Will I need more than one visit?

Most root canals are completed in one visit, depending on the tooth.

Is extraction cheaper than a root canal?

Extraction may seem cheaper upfront, but replacement options usually cost much more over time.