How Much Does Root Canal Cost in 2026?With & Without Insurance
Root Canal costs between $700 and $1,800 without insurance. A typical all-in cash-pay visit runs about $1,100.
Root canal costs range from $700-$1,800 without insurance, depending on the tooth. Front teeth cost $700-$1,500 and molars cost $900-$1,800, plus you'll need a crown ($800-$1,500). Learn how to save on root canal treatment.
Quick Price Summary
Cash-Pay Price Range
$700-$1,800
Typical all-in estimate: $1,100Covers the full visit. The verified benchmark below prices the primary billing code on its own.
With Insurance
$200-$600
After deductible
Based on published hospital and provider price-transparency disclosures, cash-pay benchmarks, and public fee schedules. Last updated August 2026.
What is Root Canal?
A root canal (endodontic therapy) is a dental procedure that saves a severely infected or damaged tooth by removing the infected pulp tissue inside the tooth's root canals. The dentist or endodontist removes the nerve and pulp, cleans and shapes the canals, then fills and seals them. After a root canal, the tooth typically needs a crown for protection and structural support. Root canals have a 95%+ success rate and can save teeth that would otherwise need extraction. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
What Affects Root Canal Cost?
- Tooth location: Front teeth ($700-$1,500) have fewer canals than premolars ($800-$1,500) and molars ($900-$1,800).
- Provider type: Endodontists (specialists) charge 10-30% more than general dentists but have higher success rates on complex cases.
- Crown requirement: Nearly all root canal teeth need a crown ($800-$1,500), which is billed separately.
- Complexity: Calcified canals, curved roots, or retreatments of previously failed root canals cost more.
- Geographic location: Root canal prices vary 25-40% between regions, with urban areas typically higher.
- X-rays and diagnostics: Digital X-rays and CBCT 3D scans may add $50-$200 to the total cost.
How to Save on Root Canal
Get quotes from both a general dentist and an endodontist - general dentists are often less expensive for straightforward cases.
Ask about package pricing that includes the root canal, buildup, and crown together.
Check dental schools near you for root canals at 40-60% of private practice rates.
Ask your dentist about payment plans - many offer 0% financing through CareCredit or in-house installment plans.
Don't delay treatment to save money - infected teeth can lead to abscesses and much costlier emergency care.
Use FairVisitHealth to compare root canal and dental prices from providers in your area.
These are averages. Get your exact local answer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a root canal cost without insurance?
A root canal without insurance costs $700-$1,500 for front teeth and $900-$1,800 for molars. This is for the root canal procedure itself; you'll also need a crown afterward, which adds $800-$1,500. Total out-of-pocket for root canal plus crown: $1,500-$3,300.
Why are molar root canals more expensive?
Molars have 3-4 root canals compared to 1-2 in front teeth, making them more complex and time-consuming. Molar root canals require more X-rays, longer appointments, and greater technical skill. An endodontist (root canal specialist) may charge more than a general dentist but has higher success rates on molars.
Is it cheaper to pull a tooth than get a root canal?
An extraction costs $150-$400, much less than a root canal ($700-$1,800). However, replacing the missing tooth with an implant ($3,000-$5,000) or bridge ($2,000-$5,000) makes extraction more expensive long-term. Root canals preserve your natural tooth, which is usually the best option for dental health.
Should I go to an endodontist or general dentist?
Endodontists (root canal specialists) charge 10-30% more but have higher success rates, especially for complex cases like molars or retreatments. General dentists can handle straightforward front-tooth root canals well. For molars, calcified canals, or retreatments, an endodontist is recommended.
Does dental insurance cover root canals?
Most dental insurance covers 50-80% of root canal costs after deductible, though many plans have annual maximums of $1,000-$2,000. With insurance, your out-of-pocket for a root canal may be $200-$600. Check if the crown is classified as a major procedure with lower coverage percentage.
What if I can't afford a root canal?
Options include dental schools (40-60% less), community health centers (sliding-scale fees), dental financing through CareCredit or Lending Club (0% APR for 6-18 months), and negotiating a cash discount with your dentist. Some endodontists offer payment plans without interest for 3-6 months.
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Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Pricing information is based on publicly reported data and may not reflect your actual costs.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions. Prices shown are estimates for self-pay patients and may vary by provider, location, and individual circumstances.