Root canal prices
Prices average around $1,192¹
A root canal procedure can relieve pain and help prevent a tooth extraction. Regardless of the cause, prices vary based on where you need the root canal and what insurance coverage you have.
Anterior root canals
Avg. pricing: $1,104
Traditionally, anterior root canals—root canals for your canines and bicuspids—cost less than molar root canal procedures and are priced around $1,104. This is because performing root canal therapy on your anterior teeth is a simpler process for your dentist. They usually only need one procedure to complete the treatment. Following the anterior root canal, they or may not recommend you get a dental crown based on the condition of your tooth, your surrounding teeth and how much bite pressure your affected tooth receives. Your dentist will work with you to develop the best care plan for you and your smile.
Molar root canals
Avg. pricing: $1,380
Molar root canals cost about $1,380. Your molars are structurally foundational to your bite and are more susceptible to pressure when you’re chewing. Because molar root canal therapy is a more complex treatment process, the price is a bit higher and your dentist may defer you to a specialized endodontist. Following a molar root canal, your care team may recommend having a dental crown installed to maintain your jaw's strength and to fortify your tooth against damage. A crown will hopefully prevent against future root canals.
These are the average prices for root canal treatments without insurance, which can help to mitigate the severe costs some providers charge for their services.
¹Price displayed is average price paid by patients nationwide for selected service.
Root canal location
The location of your root canal is the biggest cost indicator. An anterior root canal located near the front of your mouth typically costs less than a molar root canal.
Tooth condition
If a root canal was previously performed on the affected tooth, or if the infection requires surgery, your cost could be impacted.
Dentist vs. specialist
The cost of a root canal varies based on who is performing the treatment; specialists will have a higher fee from general dentists.
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Root canal cost FAQs
Does insurance cover a root canal?
We work with most dental insurance providers³ and accept most major dental insurance plans. We do not accept Medicaid. Check with your provider to see what’s covered by your current plan.
If you don’t currently have dental insurance—no worries. We’ll connect you with third-party financing to ensure you get the care you need. Explore financing options and our Aspen Dental Savings Plan.
To see which providers are accepted by your local Aspen Dental office, visit their location page. We do not accept Medicaid.
³Dental insurance providers accepted vary based on Aspen Dental location.
Is a root canal worth the cost?
Yes. When a natural tooth is pulled but not replaced, the teeth around it may shift, making it more difficult to bite, chew or clean your teeth well, which can lead to gum disease. It’s important to get care as soon as you can because root canal procedures can relieve pain and help prevent a tooth extraction. Regardless of the cause, prices vary based on where you need the root canal and what insurance coverage you have.
Does Medicare pay for a root canal?
It depends. Like most dental procedures, Medicare Parts A and B will not cover the costs of a root canal unless it is medically necessary. This means you’d need to qualify for having a more severe health issue for your doctor to get clearance on its necessity. Because Medicare D only helps cover the costs of prescription medicines, unfortunately this plan does not cover root canal prices either.
With Medicare Advantage - Part C, coverage for dental procedures and other health benefits are included, so your root canal treatment should be covered with this plan.
Is it cheaper to get a tooth extraction or get a root canal?
Although having a tooth extraction is usually cheaper than getting a root canal, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Tooth extraction: you’ll also need to schedule the necessary appointments for your corresponding dental bridge, implant or cosmetic dentistry solution. The combined prices of these appointments could add up to be similar, if not more, than the root canal treatment.
Root canal therapy: this solution may be your most comprehensive option to strengthen your smile without incurring additional costs, if your dentist recommends it.