Restoration Costs: Are Root Canals Expensive?

Hearing the words “you need a root canal” can make anyone nervous, both because of the procedure itself and the potential cost. Root canals have an unfair reputation for being painful and pricey, but the truth is, they’re a valuable investment in your oral health. While the cost of a root canal can vary depending on several factors, understanding what goes into the procedure and what affects the price can help you make an informed decision.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure designed to save a tooth that’s severely decayed, cracked, or infected. Instead of extracting the tooth, your dentist removes the infected pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), cleans and disinfects the canal, and seals it to prevent future infection.

This treatment eliminates pain, restores normal chewing function, and allows you to keep your natural tooth—something that’s almost always better than replacing it.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of a root canal can vary based on several factors, including the tooth’s location, the severity of the infection, and whether the procedure is performed by a general dentist or an endodontist (a root canal specialist).

On average:

• Front teeth: $600–$1,100.
• Premolars: $700–$1,300.
• Molars: $900–$1,600.

Molars tend to cost more because they have multiple roots and are more complex to treat. If a crown is needed after the procedure (which is usually the case for back teeth), that can add an additional $800 to $1,500 depending on the material used.

While these numbers might seem high, it’s important to consider that a root canal is often less expensive than extracting a tooth and replacing it with a bridge or dental implant. Saving your natural tooth is typically the most cost-effective long-term solution.

Factors That Affect Root Canal Costs

• Location of the tooth:
  As mentioned, front teeth have a single root, making them simpler and cheaper to treat than molars.
• Dentist vs. specialist:
  Endodontists have advanced training and equipment for complex cases, so their fees may be slightly higher, but their expertise often leads to quicker, more comfortable procedures.
• Geographic location:
  Dental costs can vary widely depending on where you live. Urban areas with a higher cost of living generally have higher dental fees.
• Additional procedures:
  If the tooth is severely damaged, your dentist may need to perform additional treatments, such as rebuilding part of the tooth or placing a post inside the canal for support.

Does Insurance Cover Root Canals?

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of root canal costs, usually between 50 percent and 80 percent of the procedure, depending on your plan and deductible. If you don’t have insurance, many dental offices offer financing options or payment plans to make treatment more affordable.

Why It’s Worth the Investment

While root canals aren’t cheap, they’re far less costly than neglecting an infected tooth. Leaving the problem untreated can lead to abscesses, bone loss, and the need for more extensive (and expensive) dental work later.

By saving your natural tooth, you maintain your bite alignment, jawbone strength, and overall oral health—benefits that last a lifetime.

Root canals may seem expensive at first glance, but they’re a wise investment in your health and comfort. The cost reflects the complexity of the treatment and the long-term value of keeping your natural tooth. With insurance coverage or financing options, most patients find that a root canal is a manageable—and worthwhile—expense for preserving a healthy, pain-free smile.

About the Practice

Do you have a bad toothache that seems to be worsening? If you suspect you need root canal therapy to save a damaged tooth, we can help! At Compass Dental, Drs. Charles Fana and Spencer Smith and our talented team can perform the procedure and keep you comfortable throughout. After all, patient comfort is our number-one priority. If you’re anxious about the visit, we have multiple types of sedation available, as well as same-day appointments for patients in pain. We want to get help you feel better. Come see why we’re a trusted, compassionate provider. Schedule your appointment online or call our Savannah office at (912) 352-3955.