Root Canals: Affordable & Always Worth It!

Regular checkups and cleanings are recommended twice a year to help avoid and prevent the need for root canal therapy. However, if you have dental pain or decay that requires this treatment, you may be worried about the cost. That’s why your dentist has included some important information about the factors that influence the price of root canals, plus the reason they’re surprisingly more cost-effective than your other options.

First, What Exactly is a Root Canal?

Root canals often get a bad reputation, but they actually relieve your pain rather than put you in it. When decay gets severe and goes deeper than your protective enamel, the sensitive inner portion of the tooth becomes affected, which is why you’ll often experience pain when a root canal is necessary. This treatment removes the decayed and infected tissue while keeping the rest of your tooth intact, protecting it in the future.  

How Much Does a Root Canal Cost?

The cost of root canal therapy will greatly vary because of these 3 main factors:

• Location: According to the American Association of Endodontists, the most significant variable is the location of the damaged tooth. Front teeth cost less because they only have one root to treat, however back molars (the big teeth you use to chew) can have up to three.
• Time: If you visit the dentist as soon as you notice sensitivity, your infection is probably less severe, making it easier for root canal treatment and filling the tooth. However, waiting to address your tooth may result in more costly repair, including the need for a crown.
• Retreatment: Have you had a root canal in the affected tooth before? If so, it could lead to higher cost. Even if you had a previous filling, there is a good chance that your root canal therapy will require a crown the second time around, making it a little pricier.

More Affordable Than You Think

If you’re worried about the cost, consider the alternatives. Root canal therapy is the last defense before you’ll need a complete extraction. Once your tooth is pulled, you will need a replacement like a dental bridge or dental implant, which is much more expensive than a root canal. Without proper replacement, you’ll face a higher risk of a variety of additional oral health issues like misalignment, decay, and gum disease.

When it comes to root canals, it’s best not to wait! Save yourself some money and avoid additional pain by contacting your dentist so you can get an affordable and comfortable treatment.

Meet the Dentist

Dr. Darrick Castleberry is a trusted dentist who loves caring for patients in Houston – his hometown. His extensive experience and training allow him to provide cost-effective root canal therapy that saves teeth from extraction. To schedule an appointment, he can be reached through his website or by phone at (281) 320-9600.