How much is Root Canal Cost?

Introduction

Toothache or sensitivity may require a root canal treatment. The cost of this procedure varies widely. This blog will guide you through varying root canal costs, both at NHS and private dental practices, highlighting factors that influence the overall expense.

What is a Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a procedure aimed at saving a tooth which is infected. By addressing the infection and restoring the tooth, this treatment helps preserve your natural teeth and avoid the need for teeth extraction. It is an effective method to maintain the function and appearance of your teeth, ensuring long term oral health. Dentists recommend root canal treatment to save your natural dentition, as it supports the overall integrity of your dental structure.

NHS Costs for Root Canal Treatment

The NHS dental pricing structure provides an upfront cost for root canal treatment of £319. This includes the prices of root canals and additional dental crowns. The transparency ensures patients receive effective care without unexpected expenses, allowing proper budget planning.

Private Costs for Root Canal Treatment

The cost of a private root canal typically ranges from £300 to £1,000 per tooth, depending on factors such as procedure complexity, the number of canals, and severity of decay. Urban practices usually charge more than rural ones. Endodontists, root canal specialists, often have higher fees. Additional costs, like diagnostic X-rays, consultations, or follow-up treatments such as fillings or crowns, may further increase the total expense.

Factors that affect the cost

Each tooth is unique, with varying root formations affecting root canal costs. More roots or complications increase the cost. Researching a dentist expertise, reading reviews, and seeking recommendations ensure better outcomes. Specialised care may be necessary for addressing complex root canal issues.

• Number of root canals required

You have four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Incisors are the eight front teeth – four on the top and four on the bottom. Each incisor has a single root, limiting the number of root canals it can have. Unlike other teeth, root canal treatments for incisors are not performed through their biting surface. Instead, a root canal specialist accesses the root through the back of the tooth.

Canines, the four sharp teeth beside the incisors, also require root canal access from the back. Canines and incisors generally have the lowest cost for root canal treatment due to their simpler structure.

Premolars, located between the canines and molars, usually have one root each, except for the upper first premolars, which typically have two roots and two canals. Root canal treatments for premolars are slightly more expensive than for canines and incisors.

Molars, the large teeth at the back of your mouth, often incur the highest root canal costs due to their complexity. Lower jaw molars have two roots and three to four canals, while upper jaw molars have three roots with up to four canals.

However, dental x-rays may reveal additional roots or canals, as tooth anatomy can vary. This intricate structure explains the higher cost and complexity of molar root canal treatments.

• Extent and complexity of the tooth damage

If you need a root canal, it is typically because a cavity or crack has allowed bacteria to enter your tooth. The extent of the cavity plays a significant role in determining the total cost of the procedure.

If detected early, the root canal specialist can address the issue with a straightforward filling. However, as time passes, the infection may worsen, leading to more complications. Your dentist will assess the severity of the infection and tailor your treatment accordingly.

In cases where the infection has progressed significantly, a permanent filling might not be an option. When a large portion of the tooth’s structure is damaged, you may require a crown, which increases the overall cost.

In addition, if the tooth is abscessed or severely infected, your dentist may need to clean and dress the tooth multiple times before it can be filled. This extended treatment process can further add to the time and expense. Addressing dental issues promptly is essential to minimising costs and preserving your dental health.

• Location of the clinic

Dental practice costs vary by location. Urban clinics typically charge more than rural ones, reflecting regional differences in pricing influenced by factors like overhead expenses and demand.

• Expertise of the dentist

The type, qualification, professional experience, and expertise of the dentist affect costs. Endodontists, specialising in root treatments, often charge more than general dentists providing similar procedures.

• Expenses for additional procedures

Additional costs, like diagnostic X-rays or follow-up appointments for procedures such as fillings, can increase the total expense.

The Procedure Explained

The procedure of a root canal treatment usually includes the following steps:

1. Diagnosis and X-ray: The dentist takes an X-ray to examine the root canals and surrounding bone, identifying signs of infection or damage.
   
   
2. Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is applied to numb the area, ensuring the patient remains comfortable throughout the procedure.
   
   
3. Pulpectomy: The dentist makes a small opening in the tooth to access the infected or inflamed pulp within the root canals and remove it.
   
   
4. Cleaning and Shaping: The canals undergo thorough cleaning and shaping for better adherence of the filling material, ensuring all infection is removed.
   
   
5. Filling and Sealing: The cleaned canals are filled with a biocompatible material (commonly gutta-percha) and sealed to prevent any bacteria from re-entering the tooth.
   
   
6. Restoration: To restore the tooth’s function and appearance, a crown or filling is placed, providing strength and protection.

Root Canal Treatment Cost in UK

Different factors determine the root canal treatment costs in the UK, including the location of the tooth, complexity of the treatment, and whether you are opting for private clinic or the NHS. Here’s an overview of the costs:

NHS Treatment Costs:

The NHS incurs different dental treatment costs into different brands:

• Band 2: Includes procedures like extractions, root canals, and filings.
• Cost: £73.50.
• Band 3: Cover treatments like dentures and crowns.
• Cost: Approximately £319.10.

Private Treatment Costs

Private dental care has a higher cost, but it is worthy enough with shorter waiting times and flexible appointments.

Tooth Type	Average Root Canal Treatment Range
Incisor/Canine (Front Teeth)	£950 – £1,250+
Premolar	£950 – £1,350+
Molar (Back Teeth)	£950 – £1,450+
Removal of post	From £350
Internal bleaching	From £350

Note: These are approximate costs which might vary according to the clinic’s location and expertise of the root canal dentist.

Additional Costs to Consider:

• Dental Crowns: After the root canal treatment, a crown is necessary to protect your treated tooth.
• NHS Cost: Comes under Band 3 (£282.80).
• Private Cost: Ranges between £990 and £1050, based on the type of crown used.
• Consultation Fees: Initial consultation at private practices may charge from £50 to £100.
• X-rays and Diagnostic Tests: If not included in the treatment plan, these diagnoses might cost additional charges.
• Aftercare and Follow-up Appointments: While some clinics include the follow-up appointments and aftercare in the overall treatment costs, other clinics charge separately for these expenses.

Factors Influencing Cost:

• Location of the tooth: As molars have multiple root canals, they require a more complex treatment and usually cost more than front teeth treatment.
• Complexity of the treatment: More complex cases with former dental works or severe infection need more resources and time, increasing the overall costs.
• Expertise of the dentist: Endodontists charge higher fees than general dentists due to their advanced expertise.
• Geographic location of the clinic: Clinics located at different regions in the UK have different feestructure for dental treatments.

Why choose MD.co.uk to have root canal treatment?

At MD Dental, we connect patients with top dental care providers, offering advanced treatments at affordable prices. Our experienced team ensures a comfortable, seamless experience, ensuring your oral health maintenance and beautiful smile.

• Open to All

We offer a wide range of treatments through our partner clinics, with convenient and flexible appointment options for varying patients.

• State-of-the-Art Clinics

Our clinics are equipped with the latest technology and modern equipment to perform all necessary dental procedures and exams.

• Strong Expertise

Our team includes root canal specialists, orthodontists, hygienists, and dental nurses, all providing high-quality care.

• Competitive Costs

We offer tailored solutions for your dental needs, with upfront and competitive pricing to ensure your oral health is taken proper care of.

Conclusion

The cost of root canal treatment depends on a number of factors as discussed above. Whether you are opting for NHS or private care, it is essential to consider every aspect affecting the root canal cost. MD.co.uk provides affordable, high-quality care through experienced professionals, ensuring you a seamless dental journey.