Root Canal Cost Guide
A root canal may sound daunting, but it is an important procedure that may significantly improve your dental health and comfort.
When the area of a tooth known as the pulp is infected or damaged, a root canal aims to preserve the tooth. This works towards retaining the tooth’s functionality and avoiding the need to remove it. It also reduces the risk of the infection spreading to the bone or nearby teeth. During the procedure, the infected or decaying areas are removed and replaced, and the area is shaped, filled and sealed as necessary. This typically takes at least two dentist appointments.
If your dentist recommends this procedure, one of your first thoughts may revolve around how much a root canal costs. This is dependent on a few different factors. At Boroondara Family Dentist, we are happy to talk to you about what is involved and, in this blog, we explore the cost of the root canal procedure.
The Cost of a Root Canal
How much your procedure will cost relies on how complex your case is. This may involve aspects such as the extent the nerves, blood vessels and fibres have been affected, and the overall state of your dental health. These factors influence how the treatment is carried out and what is used.
When considering the cost of a root canal procedure, it is important to note that this treatment option may save you money and pain long term: if the affected tooth is left untreated, the consequences may be significant. Your dentist will discuss with you what is required in your case and how this affects the overall price, but most people can expect a cost between $750 and $1, 500 for one root canal.
What is Involved in Root Canal Costs?
A root canal procedure involves multiple parts, which influences the overall cost. Most people require an initial consultation plus one to two appointments for the actual procedure and may also require a follow up appointment.
Aspects involved may include the:
- Initial consultation and assessment.
- Dental x-rays.
- Local anaesthetic.
- Staff’s time and experience.
- Aftercare.
Several factors impact the cost of the actual root canal procedure. These may include the:
- Materials and equipment used during and after the procedure.
- Location and type of the affected tooth (for example, teeth at the back of the mouth have more roots).
- Restoration type (for example, having a filling or a dental crown).
- Dentist’s experience.
Is a Root Canal Procedure Covered by Health Insurance?
If you require a root canal procedure, it is important to check with your private health insurance provider to see if your policy will cover part of the procedure’s costs. You may have primary dental care cover, but not all policies cover more complex treatments. If you do have a more comprehensive policy, you may be covered for some of the costs involved in a root canal procedure.
As a root canal has the potential to save affected teeth, improve or preserve your dental health, and avoid major consequences such as bone infection and decay, significant pain and costly procedures to rectify these issues, it may be worth exploring your dental policy options for the future. Investing in ‘major dental’ in your extras cover could help you if the need for a root canal arises down the track.
Do You Need a Root Canal?
The cost and time involved in a root canal procedure may have you considering ignoring your discomfort. However, in most cases, this is not an option and delaying it will usually only make the outcomes more complex. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult one of our dentists as soon as possible:
- Pain when chewing.
- Broken, chipped or cracked tooth.
- Heat sensitivity.
- Cold sensitivity.
- Inflamed, red or sore gums.
- High temperature.
- Headaches.
Left untreated, these symptoms can worsen, significantly impact your daily life and overall health, and compound the complexity of treatment.
Read related article: Everything You Need to Know About Root Canal Treatment
Root Canals at Boroondara Family Dentist
It may be frustrating or upsetting to realise you may require a root canal procedure, but it is typically not something you can ignore. Our friendly and experienced team is here to help you through this time. We will explain all that is involved, from procedural steps to costs, and answer any questions you may have.
If you have a tooth that is causing you trouble, please do not delay. Contact us to make an appointment as soon as possible so that we can assess your situation and provide the most suitable treatment promptly. We look forward to meeting and supporting you.
