You will be pleased to know that there is dental insurance with no waiting period for root canals. A root canal can be a very expensive procedure and it is not uncommon for a root canal to cost around $1000 and often times a crown may be needed as well which is an additional $1100.

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What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure in which the nerve and pulp is removed from a tooth’s root canal. The area is cleaned and replaced with an inert material and sealed. The goal of a root canal is to save the tooth. Root canals are a very common procedure and have a very successful outcome. Sadly, many people cannot afford root canals and often times decide on an extraction.

What happens if I don’t get a root canal?

If a dentist decides that a root canal is needed, and the tooth is NOT treated, it will most likely become an abscessed tooth. The abscessed tooth can be extraordinarily painful and usually need treatment immediately. Some people without dental insurance end up having the tooth extracted as that is the most affordable option. However, sooner or later most people want to replace the missing tooth, so then they must get a dental implant. A dental implant is a very expensive way to replace a tooth.

What should I do if I don’t have dental insurance and I need a root canal?

If you need a root canal and you don’t have dental insurance, you have a few options.

  • Pay Cash: This will probably cost you about $700-$1200.
  • Get an Extraction: If you don’t care much about the tooth you could get it extracted for around $200-$300 depending on the tooth.
  • Buy No Waiting Period Dental Insurance and get a Root Canal: with a plan offered on this site, you can get the root canal done for a copay of around $250-$450 depending on which tooth the extent of the treatment.
  • Buy No Waiting Period Dental Insurance and get an Extraction: the plans offered on this site also cover extractions at low copays of $35-$100 depending on the extent of the work needing done.

How much will a root canal cost?

The dental cost for a root canal varies from one provider to another. However, the nationwide cost is between $900 and $1,300 per a tooth. A front tooth root canal is usually less costly than a molar. It should also be mentioned that a crown is a separate procedure and it will have it’s own costs associated with it.

How long does a root canals last?

A restored tooth after a root canal could last forever. Though a tooth has a root canal it is still important to maintain preventive care. If your tooth and gums remain healthy, the root canal should experience no further problems.

How long does it take to get a root canal?

Root canal therapy usually takes about 90 minutes to complete. However, this can vary depending on the dentist and the tooth’s condition. Most dentists would require an initial visit then the procedure would be scheduled at a later date, meaning two visits would be required.

How painful is a root canal?

The general public hears the phrase “root canal” and thinks of pain. However, most people who have received a root canal will say that the procedure does not hurt, but the days before treatment are painful. Many people wait to receive a root canal until they are in real pain. Other’s get the procedure done before it is out control. The pain a person feels is most likely caused by an infection in the tooth. During the root canal procedure, a local anesthetic numbs the tooth and the surrounding areas.

Do endodontist do root canals?

Yes, Endodontists are dentists who specialize in maintaining teeth through endodontic therapy. Most general dentist do not do root canals and they refer the patient to an endodontic specialist, who performs root canals on a daily basis. Endodontists have two or more years of special training in root canal treatment. They may perform over 1,000 root canals per a year.

What are some of the symptoms of a root canal that is infected?

Some indications you may be in need of a Root Canal

  • Tooth pain from pressure upon the tooth, chewing
  • Swelling of surrounding gum
  • Darkening of the tooth
  • Prolonged throbbing of tooth
  • Abscess with discharge
  • Extreme sensitivity to hot or cold

What about the failure rate of root canals?

Root canals should have a success rate above 85% after treatment. Occasionally, endodontist have to re-do a root canal. Root canals often fail because the dentist missed the canal.

Can antibiotics cure a root canal?

Antibiotics can suppress pain and irritation, but cannot cure a root canal. Simply put the infection is contained inside the tooth.

Do Root Canals Need a Crown?

In many cases, a root canal may need the strength that only a crown can provide. Molars would be less inclined to need a crown, than a front tooth. Dentist have to determine the best option for restoring a tooth after a root canal, and the general dentist will review your options with you. Sometimes the patient already has a crown, and the crown can be filled.