How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of a root canal can cover a broad range due to the number of variables that go into the procedure. Over 15 million Americans receive a root canal every year and every procedure will have its slight differences. Let’s look at the reasoning behind a root canal and then identify the list of variables that contribute to the final cost.

Why have a Root Canal?

The dental industry use to extract an infected tooth. Now your dentist will do anything possible to protect your natural teeth. A root canal is such a procedure. If you have a broken, cracked, chipped or fractured tooth that tooth is very susceptible to becoming infected. A deep cavity will even deliver bacteria and infection quicker. A root canal is no more painful today than having a filling placed so it has become a common solution.

The Steps in a Root Canal Procedure

Once an evaluation determines that you have an infected tooth an x-ray will be taken to confirm these findings. Your dentist will suggest a root canal and walk you through the benefits of keeping that natural tooth. A local anesthesia is used to numb the tooth to be repaired. Next an opening is drilled to give the dentist access to the soft tissue in the center of the tooth called pulp. Using small tools the diseased pulp will be removed from the pulp chamber and the canal running down the root. The chamber and canal are thoroughly cleaned and a rubber like material called gutta-percha is placed into the space. Then the tooth is sealed with a filling. Sometimes that completes the procedure, sometimes it is strongly recommended that you next put a crown over the tooth to ensure longevity.

The Contributing Variables to a Root Canal Procedure

To start with some national averages, a root canal can cost around $900 for a front tooth, $1000 for a premolar and over $1,200 for a molar. The first variable is location, location. As you move back in the mouth it is more difficult for the dentist. Also, a front tooth only has one root, a premolar two roots and a molar will sometimes have three roots. Location, location also suggests that the average may vary from coast to coast versus the Midwest.

Then there is you and your tooth. If you wait too long you simply make the procedure more extensive since there will be more infection to remove. Another big contributing factor is whether it can be completed in one visit or if you need a second appointment. A tooth that has received a root canal can last a lifetime depending on your personal oral hygiene but more often than not a crown will be suggested to be placed over the tooth to enhance protection when it does become more brittle.

To avoid any sticker shock your dentist will confirm a range for your root canal based on your situation. The office will also check insurance coverage for you. The growing pain from the tooth will help you make a decision.

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