Root Canal
Expect to pay $700-$1,500 for root canal at a typical dental office, or $400-$900 through discount programs and dental schools.
Root canal treatment removes infected pulp from inside a tooth to save it from extraction.
Sources: CDT benchmark database, state Medicaid fee schedules, and providers’ published rates. Re-verified monthly. Nothing on this page is a quote.
Typical Price Range
$700-$1,500
National average
Discount Programs & Dental Schools
$400-$900
FTC Pricing Disclaimer: Prices shown are estimated ranges based on ADA fee surveys, endodontic specialists. Actual prices vary by location, dentist, and complexity. Always verify pricing before scheduling.
What's Included
- Pulp Removal
- Canal Cleaning
- Filling
- Crown (separate)
Recovery Time
2-3 days mild discomfort
Root Canal FAQs
How much does a root canal cost without insurance?
A root canal costs $700-$1,500 depending on the tooth. Front teeth cost less ($700-$1,000) than molars ($1,000-$1,500) because they have fewer canals. A crown ($800-$1,700) is usually needed afterward but is billed separately. General dentists charge 20-40% less than endodontists for simpler cases.
Is a root canal painful?
Modern root canals are no more painful than getting a filling, thanks to local anesthesia. Most patients report the procedure itself is painless. You may have mild soreness for 2-3 days afterward, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Is it cheaper to extract a tooth or get a root canal?
Extraction ($150-$650) is cheaper upfront, but you may need an implant ($3,000-$6,000) or bridge ($1,500-$3,000) to replace the missing tooth. A root canal plus crown ($1,500-$3,200 total) preserves your natural tooth and is often more cost-effective long-term.
Where to Get Root Canal for Less
Dental Schools
50-70% savings at 65 accredited schools
Community Clinics
Sliding-scale fees at FQHCs
Compare All Prices
CDT codes, Medicaid, discount plans
Plain-English answer: how to negotiate a dental bill
Step-by-step playbook with JAMA 2024 success rates and IRS 501(r) charity-care rules.