A root canal is considered a costlier form of treatment when compared to a tooth-colored filling or traditional dental crown. This invasive procedure requires entering the tooth to remove diseased tissue and infection before filling and capping the area with a customized restoration. Having an idea of what is required to undergo a root canal, you may wonder how much you can expect to pay for your dentist to save your tooth. Read on to learn the various factors and how using your dental insurance can help.
What Factors Dictate the Cost of a Root Canal?
When meeting with your dentist for a scheduled appointment, you can expect they will go over the details of your case, complete with a comprehensive treatment plan. In addition, a cost estimate will be included, as it will indicate the factors that dictate how much you can expect to pay for this type of necessary care:
- The Type of Tooth Being Treated: Those located toward the front of the mouth have fewer root canals, so they’re likely to be less expensive than those in the back of your mouth. These molars often contain many canals that must be cleaned.
- The Severity of the Damage: Most root canals can be completed in-house by a licensed dentist who has advanced training; however, some cases do require a skilled endodontist to complete the work.
- Additional Treatments Required: It may be that you need additional dental treatments before or after your root canal (i.e., a dental crown).
How Can Dental Insurance Help You Save?
Each dental insurance plan is different, so it’s important that you look at your policy to determine the details of your coverage. If you need help, you are welcome to ask a member of your dental team for assistance.
In most cases, your dental insurance will pay a portion of your root canal treatment. It tends to be between 50-80%, which allows you to keep your out-of-pocket expenses much lower.
Are There Other Payment Options Available?
If you don’t have private dental insurance, you might consider asking your dentist if they offer flexible financing options through third-party companies, like CareCredit or Alphaeon Credit. You might also ask if they have an in-house membership plan that provides valuable discounts.
No matter how much your root canal costs, don’t let the fear of a big bill keep you from getting the care you need. Use your dental insurance or inquire about alternative solutions so that your natural smile and oral health remain intact.
About Grand Dental – Aurora
At Grand Dental – Aurora, we’re pleased to offer multiple payment options for our patients, those with insurance and those without. Our qualified team will do our best to ensure all appropriate information is completed and filed so that you pay less each time you visit our office. If you have questions about using your dental insurance or about the other available solutions we offer, visit our website or call (630) 538-8302.