How Much Does A Root Canal Cost With Insurance?
When your dentist says you need a root canal, one of the first questions you might have is, “How much will this cost?” Root canals can sound expensive, but understanding how insurance plays a role can help you plan and feel more at ease. Let’s break down the costs of a root canal, how insurance helps, and what to expect so you can be prepared.
What is a root canal, and why might you need one?
A root canal is a procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp from inside your tooth. This treatment stops pain, prevents infection from spreading, and saves your tooth. If left untreated, the infection could lead to severe pain, tooth loss, or more serious health problems.
How much does a root canal cost?
The cost of a root canal depends on several factors, including:
- The tooth: front teeth are usually less expensive to treat than molars because they have fewer roots.
- The dentist or specialist: general dentists may charge less, while endodontists (root canal specialists) may charge more due to their advanced training and expertise.
- Your location: in a city like New York, where the cost of living is higher, dental procedures might also be pricier.
On average, without insurance:
- Front tooth root canal: $1,100–$1,600
- Premolar root canal: $1,200–$1,700
- Molar root canal: $1,500–$2,500
How does insurance help?
Most dental insurance plans cover root canals as they’re considered a necessary procedure. Coverage typically falls under “basic” or “major” services, depending on your policy.
Here’s how insurance can help reduce your costs:
- Deductibles: you’ll need to pay a deductible first, which is usually a set amount like $50 or $100.
- Coverage percentage: after meeting your deductible, insurance typically covers 50–80% of the cost.
- Annual maximums: many plans have an annual maximum, often around $1,000–$1,500. If your treatment exceeds this amount, you’ll need to pay the difference.
For example, if a root canal on a molar costs $1,200 and your plan covers 70%, you’d pay $360 plus any deductible.
Other costs to consider
Beyond the root canal itself, you’ll likely need a dental crown to restore your tooth. Crowns can cost an additional $1,200–$2,000 and up. Be sure to ask your dentist or insurance provider about how this will be covered.
How to find out what you’ll pay
- Check with your insurance provider: call your insurance company or review your benefits online to understand your coverage for root canals and crowns.
- Ask for a pre-treatment estimate: your dentist can submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurance company so you know exactly what to expect. This may take several weeks to process so it’s not ideal if you are in pain and need treatment right away.
- Understand your plan details: pay attention to your deductible, coinsurance percentage, and annual maximums.
What if you don’t have insurance?
If you don’t have dental insurance, a root canal can feel overwhelming financially. Here are some options to consider:
- Payment plans: Some dental offices offer payment plans to help break up the cost into smaller payments.
- Discount Plans: Some dental practices offer in-house membership plans or accept discount plans, which can reduce costs significantly.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA): These allow you to use pre-tax dollars for dental procedures.
Why Is It Worth It?
While the cost of a root canal might seem high, the procedure saves your natural tooth. This prevents future dental work, such as implants or bridges, which are more expensive and time-consuming. Investing in your oral health now can save you money and pain down the road.
Final thoughts
If you need a root canal, understanding the costs with insurance can help reduce the stress of the procedure. Reach out to your dentist and insurance provider to get a clear picture of your financial responsibility. Remember, saving your tooth is an investment in your long-term health and well-being.