Root Canal Costs Explained: Insurance vs Out-of-Pocket

How Much is a Root Canal Cost With and Without Insurance

#1How Much is a Root Canal Treatment Cost?

The answer to the question “how much does a root canal cost” may vary depending on some factors, including the location of the dental practice, the tooth that needs the procedure, the complexity of the case, and whether you have dental insurance.

Prices are estimates. Final costs depend on tooth condition, complexity, and your specific insurance plan. Financing options available.

• Crown costs (after root canal) typically add $1,000 – $1,500.

• Emergency or after-hours root canals might cost slightly more.

• Payment plans available for uninsured patients.

On average the cost of a root canal treatment can range from $800 to $1,500 per tooth.

#2The Factors Affecting How Much does a Root Canal Treatment Cost

Keep in mind that this is a general estimate, and actual costs can be higher or lower. Some factors that can influence the cost of a root canal treatment include:

1. Tooth location: Molars typically cost more to treat than front teeth because they have more roots and are more challenging to access.
2. Endodontist vs. general dentist: An endodontist is a specialist in root canal procedures and may charge more for their expertise.
3. Geographic location: The cost of root canal treatment can vary significantly from one region to another, with urban areas generally having higher prices.
4. Dental insurance: If you have dental insurance, your out-of-pocket costs for a root canal may be significantly lower.
5. Additional procedures: Sometimes, a root canal may be followed by the need for a dental crown, which can add to the overall cost.

Is the price of same day root canal different?

The price of a same-day root canal procedure is typically not significantly different from a traditional root canal treatment.

The term “same-day root canal” often refers to completing the entire root canal treatment in a single visit, whereas traditional root canals may involve multiple appointments.

The decision to perform a root canal in one day or multiple visits depends on the complexity of the case and the dentist’s or endodontist’s judgment.

#3How Much Is the Average Root Canal Cost with Insurance?

Dental insurance plans vary in terms of coverage, copayments, and deductibles, so it’s important to review your specific plan to understand how much of the root canal cost is covered.

Average Root Canal Cost with Insurance

The cost of a root canal with insurance can vary significantly based on several factors. Here’s what you should know:

Average Costs with Insurance

With dental insurance, you can typically expect to pay:

• $200 to $500 out-of-pocket for a front tooth root canal
• $300 to $700 for a premolar
• $400 to $900 for a molar

These amounts represent your portion after insurance coverage, assuming you’ve met your deductible.

Key Factors Affecting Your Cost

1. Insurance coverage level – Most dental plans cover 50-80% of endodontic procedures after deductibles
2. Network status – In-network providers will cost less than out-of-network
3. Annual maximum – If you’ve used most of your annual benefits, you’ll pay more
4. Tooth location – Molars with multiple roots cost more than front teeth
5. Complexity of the case – Retreatments or difficult cases may have additional costs

Without Insurance Comparison

For context, without insurance, average root canal costs would be:

• Front tooth: $600-$1,100
• Premolar: $700-$1,300
• Molar: $1,000-$1,800

Additional Considerations

Remember that the root canal is just one part of the treatment. You’ll likely need a crown afterward, which typically costs an additional $500-$1,500 with insurance, depending on the material used.

To get the most accurate estimate, I’d recommend:

1. 1. Contacting your insurance provider for your specific coverage details
   2. Getting a pre-treatment estimate from your dentist
   3. Asking about payment plans if the cost is significant

Hypothetical Scenario for a Patient Covered by Dental Insurance:

Insurance Plan: Patient has a dental insurance plan with the following terms:

• Coverage Percentage: 80%
• Annual Maximum Benefit: $1,000
• Deductible: $50
• In-Network Provider

Root Canal Treatment: The patient needs a root canal on a molar tooth. The cost of the root canal treatment is $1,000.

Step 1: Deductible: The patient pays the $50 deductible out of pocket at the beginning of the year.

Step 2: Procedure Cost: Since the patient is using an in-network provider, the insurance plan covers 80% of the procedure cost.

• Procedure cost: $1,000
• Insurance covers: 80% of $1,000, which is $800.

Step 3: Out-of-Pocket Costs: After insurance coverage, the patient is responsible for the remaining 20% of the procedure cost:

• Patient’s share: 20% of $1,000, which is $200.

For a more detailed and definitive answer to the question “how much is a root canal“, please call us and we will provide you with a free consultancy service.