Root canals are the most common endodontic procedures. The purpose of a root canal is to save a tooth that is severely decayed, damaged, or at risk of infection. When performed at the right time, a root canal can prevent a tooth from being extracted. 

Do you have a tooth that needs a root canal? If so, you may be wondering how much a root canal costs in your area. Here’s what you can expect to pay for a root canal in Temple, Texas. 

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a procedure used to treat a tooth that is infected or at risk of infection. The soft tissue at the center of a tooth, the dental pulp, is susceptible to infection if bacteria invades the root canal where it is contained. Root canal therapy is the process of removing the dental pulp, cleaning out the tooth, and filling the tooth with a replacement material. This eliminates or prevents infection. 

Average Cost of a Root Canal 

The average cost of a root canal may range anywhere from $600-$1,500 before insurance. Your individual estimate will be determined by a variety of factors. 

Factors That Affect the Cost of a Root Canal

The cost of a root canal may depend on any of the following factors: 

• The size and type of tooth. A larger tooth, such as a molar, may cost more for a root canal than a smaller tooth because there tends to be a more complex root canal structure in a larger tooth. 
• The location of the tooth. The easier the tooth is to access, the lower the cost may be for root canal therapy. 
• The number of teeth being treated. The average cost above is on a per tooth basis, so each additional tooth receiving treatment will add to the total cost. 
• Proactive vs Reactive root canal. A root canal performed to prevent infection may cost less than a root canal that is used to treat a tooth that is already infected. This is because an infected tooth may have more damage and will require more thorough disinfecting than a tooth that is only at-risk. 

Is a Root Canal Worth It? 

A root canal is often capable of saving a tooth, allowing the natural root to remain in place for support. The tooth can function normally and look natural as well. If a tooth is not treated, it will eventually need to be extracted and replaced. Dental prosthetics such as bridges and dental implants come at a higher cost than root canal therapy. Choosing not to replace the tooth leaves a gap in your mouth that will allow your other teeth to shift out of place. A root canal is almost always worth it if it can preserve your natural tooth. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Root Canals 

Will a root canal hurt? 

Local anesthesia is used for root canal therapy to numb the nerves and prevent you from feeling any discomfort. If you are nervous or anxious about the procedure, we provide a variety of sedation options to help you relax. 

How long does a root canal take? 

An average root canal takes between 30 and 90 minutes. The complexity of the root canal structure and ease of access to the tooth, among other factors, will affect the length of the procedure. 

Who Performs Root Canals? 

Root canals can be performed by some dentists, but an endodontist specializes in root canal therapy. The endodontists at Heart of Texas Endodontics are especially qualified and have extensive experience treating teeth that are infected or at-risk. Our practice is also fully equipped with the most advanced technology for root canal therapy, including the GentleWave method. 

To learn more, contact us today and schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations.