Many people worry when their dentist informs them that they need a root canal – after all, the way this procedure has been portrayed in movies and television hasn’t always been positive, despite their usefulness in assisting severely decayed teeth. Some people also hesitate at the thought of having to shell out a lot of money to care for their smile. However, root canals aren’t just incredibly beneficial at resolving dental pain – they are also surprisingly affordable! Here are a few of the factors that normally contribute to their cost.
1. Location of the Tooth
The actual amount that a dentist will charge for a root canal can vary significantly, but one of the primary cost factors is the location of the tooth that needs to be repaired. If your cavity is on one of your front teeth, it will generally cost less. Because front teeth only have one root; molars can add up to 3, which equates to more work for your dentist and ultimately, a higher total cost. Your geographic location also plays a role; certain markets have higher dental care-related prices than others so it’s important to see what your dental insurance provider offers when it comes to this procedure.
2. Severity of the Issue
Another key factor in the cost of root canals is how severe the cavity is and the extent of treatment that is needed to repair the tooth. If you’re quick to visit your dentist soon after you begin noticing pain, the infection probably won’t be quite as serious yet. However, if you’ve waited before making an appointment, things may have advanced, and what would’ve been an easy fix with a simple filling might now require a crown, which can tack more dollars onto your final bill. If your tooth is so severe that you must undergo an extraction, that’s a much higher cost than a root canal!
3. Retreatment for Past Root Canals
If you have an infection in a tooth that’s previously undergone root canal therapy, the procedure, known as retreatment, is more extensive – and expensive. Your dentist will need to access the infected area in order to remove it, and a dental crown will almost always need to be placed. This is why it’s so crucial to avoid this situation; adopt excellent oral hygiene habits including daily brushing and flossing as well as routine preventive dental care – it’ll benefit your smile and your wallet!
About the Practice
Our team here at Worcester Endodontics has proudly served the needs of patients and families in the Worcester community for several years, offering a wide variety of endodontic services including root canal therapy! If you have any questions about the blog you would like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment, please reach out online or over the phone today for more information or assistance. Telephone: (508) 755-3636.