How much does a root canal?

Do you have tooth pain that feels like someone is drilling into your skull? Well, don’t worry because you might just need a root canal! But before we get to the cost of this dental procedure, let’s first discuss what it is and why you might need one.

What is a Root Canal?

Root canals are used to treat infected or damaged teeth by removing the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and then sealing off any remaining space with fillings. It’s like gutting a house that has been taken over by termites…but in your mouth.

Why Might You Need One?

The most common reason for needing a root canal is due to an infection or inflammation that has entered the pulp of your tooth. This could be caused by:

  • Deep cavities
  • Cracked teeth
  • Gum disease

If left untreated, this can lead to serious pain and even abscesses! So if you’re reading this through tears from toothache-related agony, it might be time for you to think about getting some dental work done!

The Cost

Okay okay okay. I know why everyone is actually here: they want me to get to how much all of this will cost them! DENTAL INSURANCE UNITE – oh wait nope I’m not supposed to write in ALL CAPS. Sorry about that.

Anywayyyy….now onto answering the question on everybody’s mind: how much does a root canal really cost?

Well folks, buckle up because there are quite few factors at play when determining the price of such procedures.

Location Matters

Like real estate prices, location matters when looking at specific costs for different procedures. A dentist practicing in New York City will charge more than someone working out of their office located on David Hasselhoff Boulevard in Podunk Nowhere (a highly desirable destination for all those Kid Rock and Nickleback fans out there).

Insurance

If you are one of the fortunate few that has dental insurance, then chances are it could cover a portion or even most of the root canal procedure. However, if you’re like me and haven’t been to the dentist since George W Bush was president, then be prepared to dish out some cash.

But really…how much?

Here’s what we can tell you:

  • The national average for a non-surgical endodontic treatment (root canal) without any additional procedures is approximately $1,275
  • Prices can range anywhere between $400-$2,000 depending on various factors
    • Again location comes into play here!
    • If your infection/damage extends beyond just needing a standard root canal then this cost will increase
    • That invisible hand known as ‘the market’ also plays a factor in pricing

And let’s not forget about AFTER-TREATMENT!

It doesn’t stop at just the completion of surgery. After-care procedures, such as adding crowns/caps or teeth whitening (which helps make sure your pearly whites match!), can add onto the overall cost.

Conclusion

Well folks! There you have it: The NOT-SO DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO HOW MUCH A ROOT CANAL WILL SET YOU BACK. I’m completely kidding so please don’t take anything from this article as fact.

However if there is one thing to take away from all of this — IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING EXTREME TOOTH PAIN, PLEASE SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION ASAP. It could be something minor or something major but without diagnosis/treatment/attention it’ll only get worse — kind of like MTV programming over time…

Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

Stay healthy, everyone!

Disclaimer: This article should not substitute professional medical advice. Please consult with your dentist if experiencing dental pain or discomfort.

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