Understanding the Cost of Root Canal Therapy
When a tooth becomes infected or severely decayed, root canal treatment is often the only way to save your natural teeth and avoid an extraction. Many patients, however, worry about the cost of root canal therapy and whether their dental insurance plans will help cover it.
At Advanced Dentistry in Oakdale, PA, our skilled dentists, Dr. TJ Ameredes and Dr. David Mascio, provide high-quality root canal procedures that relieve pain, restore function, and protect your long-term oral health.
To learn more about root canal costs, call our dentists in Oakdale at (412) 788-6300 and schedule your consultation today.
What Is Root Canal Therapy? Our Oakdale Dentist Explains
A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat an infected tooth by removing the diseased dental pulp, disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and sealing it with a biocompatible material such as gutta-percha. Without this treatment, the infection can spread to the tooth’s root, nearby bone, or even affect your overall health.
Signs you may need a root canal include:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen gums or a boil near the tooth
- Darkened or discolored tooth
- Pain when chewing or biting
How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?
The cost of root canal therapy can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the tooth involved, and whether additional procedures are needed. On average, patients in Oakdale and the greater Pittsburgh area can expect:
Front teeth (single canal): $700 – $1,100
Premolars (two canals): $800 – $1,200
Molars (three or more canals): $1,000 – $1,600
These figures represent typical root canal costs before adding a dental crown, which is often recommended to restore the tooth’s strength and function.
Factors That Affect Root Canal Treatment Costs
Several factors can influence the overall cost of your root canal:
Tooth location: Molars and back teeth usually cost more due to multiple roots.
Complex procedures: Severe infections, infected pulp extending to the tooth’s pulp chamber, or curved canals require more time and expertise.
Dental professional’s expertise: Seeing an oral surgeon or endodontist may raise costs compared to a general dentist.
Geographic location: Costs may be higher in urban areas than rural ones.
Additional procedures: You may need tooth extraction, temporary fillings, or a dental crown after treatment.
Root Canal vs. Tooth Extraction: Cost and Value
Some patients wonder if pulling the tooth is cheaper than a root canal. While extraction may have a lower upfront cost, the long-term expenses are usually higher.
Replacing a tooth with dental implants, bridges, or dentures can be significantly more expensive than preserving your natural tooth with a root canal. Root canal therapy is often the more cost-effective solution in the long run.
Dental Insurance and Root Canal Coverage
The good news is that most dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for root canal procedures.
Insurance coverage percentage usually ranges between 50%–80% of the treatment cost, depending on your insurance provider and plan.
Annual maximums typically limit coverage to around $1,000–$1,500 per year, which may or may not cover the full root canal treatment cost and crown.
If you’re out of network, your out-of-pocket costs may be higher.
In-network providers like Advanced Dentistry can often provide significant savings compared to paying out of pocket.
Our team will help you navigate your insurance plan, explain your coverage percentage, and outline any out-of-pocket expenses.
Payment Plans and Financing Options
Even if your insurance doesn’t cover the full cost of root canal therapy, we offer solutions to make treatment affordable:
Flexible payment plans spread over several months
Financing options with low interest rates
Transparent breakdowns of the overall cost and additional costs
We believe every patient deserves access to necessary dental care without financial stress.
Average Cost of Root Canal Therapy in Oakdale, PA
To give you an idea of root canal costs in Oakdale and surrounding areas like Robinson Township, Moon Township, and Pittsburgh:
Front teeth: Around $900
Molars: Around $1,400
Adding a crown: $1,000+ additional
While root canal costs vary depending on your case, these averages reflect the typical overall cost patients can expect at many dental offices.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of a root canal usually ranges between $700 and $1,600, depending on tooth location and complexity. Molars cost more than front teeth because they have multiple roots and canals. Additional costs may apply if you need a crown or other procedures.
Yes, most dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for root canal procedures. Your insurance coverage may depend on your plan’s coverage percentage, annual maximum, and whether you’re seeing an in-network provider.
Yes, a root canal is often the best way to save your natural tooth and prevent the need for more expensive treatments like dental implants. While there are upfront costs, the procedure protects your oral health and saves money in the long run.
Affordable Root Canal Therapy in Oakdale, PA
At Advanced Dentistry, we provide cost-effective root canal therapy designed to restore your smile and protect your dental health. Whether you’re dealing with an infected tooth, severe tooth pain, or advanced decay, our experienced dentists will develop a personalized treatment plan that balances care and affordability.
Call (412) 788-6300 today to schedule your consultation with our top dentists in Oakdale, PA. We proudly serve patients from Oakdale, Robinson Township, Moon Township, and the greater Pittsburgh area.
