Root Canal (cont.)
Cost of a Root Canal
The cost varies depending on how severe the problem is and the tooth
affected. Many dental insurance policies cover endodontic treatment. A ballpark
estimate for the root canal treatment itself (not including a dental
restoration following the procedure) performed by a general dentist could range
from $350 to $540 for an incisor and $520 to $800 for a molar. The fees charged
by endodontists could be up to 50% higher.
Saving your natural teeth is the very best option, if possible. Your natural
teeth allow you to eat a wide variety of foods necessary to maintain proper
nutrition. The root canal procedure is the treatment of choice.
The only alternative to a root canal procedure is having the tooth extracted
and replaced with a bridge, implant, or removable partial denture to restore chewing
function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. These alternatives not only
are more expensive than a root canal procedure but require more treatment time
and additional procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.
Root Canal Prevention
Since some of the reasons why the nerve of a tooth and its pulp become
inflamed and infected are due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a
tooth and/or large fillings, following good oral hygiene practices (brushing
twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and scheduling regular dental
visits) may reduce the need for a root canal procedure. Trauma resulting from a
sports-related injury can be reduced by wearing a mouth guard.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dentistry.
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD, on November 12, 2007.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 7/11/2008
- ibuprofen, Advil, Children's Advil/Motrin, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin, PediaCare Fever, etc. - Explains the medication ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Medipren) a drug used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
- Dental Crowns - Get information about types of dental crowns (permanent, temporary, porcelain), problems (cap falls out, pain, broken or loose crown) and procedure cost.
- Abscessed Tooth - Learn about abscessed tooth symptoms (nausea, jaw swelling, pain), treatment (antibiotics), prevention and how dentists diagnose infected teeth.
Latest Medical News