How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

If you’ve been told you need a root canal, one of your first questions is probably: how much does it cost? The price of a root canal can vary widely depending on the location of the tooth, whether you have dental insurance, and where you live.

Let’s break down the average costs, factors that influence the price, and what you can expect to pay with or without insurance.

Average Cost of a Root Canal in the U.S.

Molars cost the most because they are harder to access and have more roots that need treatment. Front teeth are generally simpler and less expensive.

What Factors Affect the Cost of a Root Canal?

Several things influence how much you’ll pay:

• Tooth location – Molars are more expensive than front teeth.
• Severity of infection – A severely infected tooth could need extra cleaning or even medication inside the canal.
• General dentist vs. endodontist – An endodontist (a specialist) will charge more than a general dentist, but they are experts in root canals.
• Geographic location – Prices are higher in cities like New York and San Francisco and lower in rural areas.
• Whether a crown is needed – Most root canals require a crown after the procedure, adding $500 to $1,500 to the total cost.

Root Canal Costs by State

If you live in a large metro area, expect to pay on the higher end of these ranges.

Insurance Coverage for Root Canals

Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of root canal costs, typically around 50% to 80%. However, there may be a waiting period if you just started coverage, and many plans have annual maximums (often $1,000 to $2,000).

Root Canal vs. Extraction: Which Costs More?

Some people wonder if it’s cheaper to pull a tooth instead. In the short term, extraction is cheaper—but replacing the tooth (with an implant, bridge, or partial denture) costs much more.

In most cases, saving the tooth with a root canal is cheaper long-term than replacing it with an implant.

Ways to Save Money on a Root Canal

Here are some options if the cost of a root canal feels overwhelming:

• Ask about a payment plan – Many dental offices offer financing through companies like CareCredit.
• Consider a dental school – Dental schools offer discounted procedures performed by supervised students.
• Shop around – Prices vary widely between dentists, so get a few quotes.
• Use a dental discount plan – These plans aren’t insurance but provide discounts on procedures for a small monthly fee.
• Check for dental insurance – If you don’t have insurance, consider a standalone plan if you have time to meet any waiting periods.

Final Thoughts: Is a Root Canal Worth the Cost?

Root canals are not cheap, but they are usually the most cost-effective way to save a damaged or infected tooth. Compared to losing a tooth and replacing it, a root canal often makes the most sense financially and medically.

If you’re worried about the price, your dentist may be able to offer options like payment plans or refer you to a lower-cost provider.

Have you had a root canal? How much did you pay? Share your experience in the comments.

For real-world medical pricing insights, bookmark CostHowMuch.com.