Question 1

Why does a molar root canal cost more?

Accepted Answer

Molars have three to four canals and more complex anatomy than front teeth, which usually have just one. The upper molar's MB2 canal alone is present in about 90% of patients and requires a microscope to locate. More canals means more chair time and skill, so the fee is higher.

Question 2

Can I pay for a root canal in installments?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer CareCredit, which has interest-free and longer-term financing options for dental care. We'll give you a written estimate up front and help you choose a plan that works, so cost doesn't force you to lose a savable tooth.

Question 3

Isn't it cheaper to just pull the tooth?

Accepted Answer

Extraction is cheaper up front (around $200–$400), but replacing the tooth with an implant typically costs $5,000–$7,000, and leaving a gap causes neighboring teeth to drift and the bone to shrink. For a restorable tooth, the root canal is usually the better long-term value.

Question 4

Does the root canal fee include the crown?

Accepted Answer

No. The crown is a separate procedure, usually done by your general dentist, and typically costs $1,200–$2,000 on top of the root canal. The crown is essential on molars and premolars to prevent the treated tooth from fracturing.

Question 5

Does a specialist endodontist cost more than a general dentist?

Accepted Answer

Specialist fees can be modestly higher, but you're getting microscope-guided treatment, 3D imaging, and an endodontist who performs root canals all day — which improves the odds the tooth is treated correctly the first time. Many patients find the predictability well worth it, especially for difficult molars.

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost Without Insurance?