This survey found the average root canal fee is $740 for a front tooth and $1,000 for a molar, with three out of four dentists saying they perform posterior root canals.
“Root canals are the most predictable and profitable procedure in dentistry,” said one. “Dentists who do not do endodontics lose on the average $90,000.”
Root canal therapy costs somewhat more from endodontists than from general dentists, especially on posterior teeth. Of course, an endodontist is will perform a difficult root canal, while a general dentist might refer out that endodontic procedure.
How much a root canal costs depends on where you live; dentists in the Pacific states reported charging the most.
In fact, a simple root canal on a front tooth may cost more in the Pacific than a more difficult molar root canal in many other areas, including the Northeast.
Here are some dentist comment about root canals:
- “I’ve been a DDS full time for 25 years and I have not done a root canal in over 14 years… I have never been happier than since I was told by a dental consultant: what would you rather do on a Saturday morning, play golf or do a root canal?” (Utah dentist)
- “More GPs should do their own endo.” (Florida dentist)
- “Root canal therapy is a big money maker. It’s a great way to beef up the bottom line.” (California dentist)
- “Root canals are the most predictable and profitable procedure in dentistry. Dentists who do not do endo lose on the average $90,000.” (Virginia dentist)
- “Your fee should represent what it would cost to replace the tooth if it were lost.” (Maryland dentist)
- “Natural teeth are better than fake ones (dentures or implants).” (West Virginia endodontist)