Have you been told by your dentist that you’re in need of a root canal? You may already know that root canals aren’t as painful as you initially thought, and they actually end up relieving the discomfort that you’re feeling. However, you may be worried about the impact that it will have on your wallet. There are several different factors that contribute to the cost of root canal therapy. Continue reading to learn what they are so you know what you can expect.
Location of Your Affected Tooth
The amount of money that you will be charged for a root canal varies. One of the main factors has to do with where the tooth is located in the mouth. According to the American Association of Endodontists, the location of the tooth that needs treatment directly impacts the cost. If you have an infected front tooth, the cost will typically be less than if the tooth is in the back of your mouth. This is because the front tooth only has one root while molars can have up to three. More roots mean a more extensive treatment and ultimately a higher cost.
Time of Your Treatment
If an infection is ongoing, it can be more difficult for your dentist to treat it. This is why it is so crucial that you head to the dentist right away if you’re dealing with a persistent toothache or sensitivity. When you go to the dental office early on, you might be able to avoid the need for a root canal all together. A small cavity that would typically only require a filling can become more severe over time and cause you to need a root canal and dental crown. When your tooth is damaged beyond repair, you could end up needing an extraction which will ultimately be cost more in the long run. The longer you put off a dental issue, the more expensive it will be to fix.
Is Your Root Canal a Retreatment?
The last factor that contributes to the cost of a root canal is whether or not the tooth has already been treated in the past. If it has been, this can make your procedure more complex. Even if you only have a filling in your tooth, your dentist will need to drill all of the affected areas. You will likely require a crown to be placed over your tooth after your root canal therapy.
There are numerous things that contribute to the cost of your root canal therapy. If you’re worried about the cost or you don’t have dental insurance, talk to your dental team about your options. Getting essential dental care shouldn’t mean stressing about finances!
About the Author
Dr. Paul Miller earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the VCU School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Virginia Dental Association. His practice is an in-network provider for Cigna and accepts numerous other dental insurance plans. CareCredit financing is also available. For more information on root canal therapy or to schedule an appointment at his office in Altavista, visit his website or call (434) 324-8241.