While cartoons and other comedic media have depicted root canals as dreadfully horrible ordeals, these portrayals are not true to life. Modern root canals are rendered completely painless by local anesthetics, and they can bring an immediate end to an agonizingly miserable toothache. However, it’s perfectly reasonable to want to know about the associated costs before committing to a treatment. Here’s a quick overview of how root canals work and how much they can cost.
How Do Root Canals Work?
Tooth decay begins as a cavity in the dental enamel, and it will only get worse if it goes unaddressed. If the infection is allowed to progress, it will eventually infect the soft pulp at the center of the tooth, which results in a miserable throbbing toothache. Root canals are often used to restore the health of a decayed tooth, but they can also be used to protect severely damaged teeth from future infections.
After your dentist determines that a root canal is the best treatment for you, they will begin the process by administering a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort, and you may also receive a dental sedation treatment if necessary. Then, they will access the inside of your tooth, remove the infected pulp and any decayed structure, sanitize and seal the tooth’s inner chamber, and place a restoration such as a dental crown to restore its appearance and function. This treatment can resolve a toothache and prevent future infections.
How Much Do Root Canals Cost?
The cost of a root canal depends on several factors such as:
- The type of tooth being treated: Teeth located farther back in the mouth are harder to reach and have more complex anatomy, so root canals performed on them may be more expensive.
- They type of restoration used: Teeth often receive dental crowns to restore their function and appearance after undergoing root canals. The cost of your restoration will depend mostly on the material it is made from.
- Insurance: Most dental insurance plans consider root canals to be necessary restorative procedures that are covered at about 50%. The team at your dentist’s office will be happy to help you go over your policy so you know exactly what it will pay for.
If your dentist recommends a root canal, you can rest assured that it is the best way to preserve your oral health. The team at their office will carefully outline the costs associated with your treatment during your consultation.
About the Practice
Frandsen Dental of Orem offers the best oral healthcare in town. Led by Drs. Dan Dansie, Brian Frandsen, and Andy Geigle, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys compassionate treatment and sincere courtesy in a friendly and calming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry such as root canals. To learn more about the root canal process, contact the office online or dial (801) 224-7900.