How Much Does a Root Canal and Crown Cost Together?
The total root canal and crown cost depends on which tooth needs treatment, what type of crown you choose, and where you live. Together, these two procedures typically cost $1,500 to $3,500 out of pocket before insurance.
These are two distinct procedures, usually performed weeks apart. The root canal removes the infected tissue inside the tooth. The crown restores the tooth's structure and protects it from fracture. Because they are separate procedures, you may receive two separate bills.
Root Canal Cost by Tooth Type
Root canal cost varies based on which tooth needs treatment. Teeth with more roots and more canals take longer and cost more.
- Front teeth (incisors and canines): $700 to $1,000. These teeth have a single root and one canal, making them the simplest root canals.
- Premolars (bicuspids): $800 to $1,200. Premolars have one to two roots and may have multiple canals.
- Molars: $1,000 to $1,500. Molars have two to four roots with multiple canals. Their position at the back of the mouth also makes access more difficult.
Dental Crown Cost by Material
After a root canal, your tooth needs a permanent restoration. For most back teeth, that means a crown. Crown cost depends primarily on the material.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: $800 to $1,400. A metal core covered in tooth-colored porcelain. Durable and widely used.
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns: $900 to $1,800. No metal, which makes them a better cosmetic match for front teeth. Some newer ceramics like zirconia are also very strong.
- Gold or metal alloy crowns: $800 to $1,400. Extremely durable and gentle on opposing teeth. Used primarily on back teeth where appearance is less of a concern.
- Zirconia crowns: $1,000 to $2,000. Combine strength and aesthetics. Increasingly popular for both front and back teeth.
How Root Canal and Crown Billing Works
One of the most confusing aspects of root canal and crown cost is the billing. In most cases, two different providers are involved, and each bills separately.
An endodontist (root canal specialist) typically performs the root canal. After the root canal, the endodontist places a temporary filling and sends you back to your general dentist or to a prosthodontist for the permanent crown. You will receive a bill from each provider.
Some general dentists perform both the root canal and the crown in their office. In that case, you may receive a single combined bill. However, even in the same office, the root canal and crown are coded as separate procedures for insurance purposes.
Endodontist vs. General Dentist for the Root Canal
General dentists perform many root canals, particularly on front teeth and premolars with straightforward anatomy. Endodontists handle the complex cases, including molars, retreatments, and teeth with unusual root structures.
An endodontist may charge slightly more than a general dentist for the same procedure. The difference is typically $100 to $300. For complex cases, the endodontist's specialized training and equipment, including surgical microscopes and CBCT imaging, can reduce the risk of complications that would cost more to address later. Learn more about when to see an endodontist at /specialties/endodontics.
Insurance Coverage for Root Canal and Crown
Most dental insurance plans cover both root canals and crowns, but the coverage levels differ and annual maximums can limit what you receive.
Typical Insurance Coverage Levels
Dental insurance plans commonly classify root canals and crowns under different benefit tiers.
- Root canal treatment is usually classified as a "major" or "basic" procedure, covered at 50% to 80% of the allowed amount.
- Dental crowns are typically classified as a "major" procedure, covered at 50% of the allowed amount.
- Most plans have an annual maximum benefit of $1,000 to $2,000 per person. A root canal and crown together can easily reach or exceed this limit.
- Some plans impose waiting periods for major procedures. If you enrolled recently, crowns may not be covered for the first 6 to 12 months.
Sample Out-of-Pocket Cost Calculation
Here is an example of how costs might break down with a typical insurance plan. Assume a molar root canal at $1,200 and a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown at $1,200, for a total of $2,400.
If your plan covers root canals at 80% and crowns at 50%, insurance would pay $960 toward the root canal and $600 toward the crown, for a total insurance payment of $1,560. Your out-of-pocket cost would be $840, assuming you have not used your annual maximum on other procedures that year.
If your annual maximum is $1,500 and you have already used $500, insurance would only pay $1,000 total. Your out-of-pocket cost would jump to $1,400. Ask your dental office to verify your remaining benefits before scheduling.
When a Crown Is and Is Not Needed After a Root Canal
Not every tooth that has a root canal requires a crown. The decision depends on the tooth's location, how much natural structure remains, and the forces it must withstand.
When a Crown Is Typically Recommended
Back teeth (premolars and molars) almost always need a crown after a root canal. These teeth bear heavy chewing forces, and a root canal removes internal structure that weakens the tooth. Without a crown, the tooth is at significant risk of fracturing.
Front teeth with large fillings or significant decay may also need a crown for structural support and cosmetic reasons.
When a Crown May Not Be Necessary
Front teeth (incisors and canines) that still have most of their natural structure intact may do well with just a composite filling after the root canal. These teeth experience less biting force than molars.
If a crown is not placed, your dentist will monitor the tooth over time. The tooth may become more brittle and discolored without a crown, but for some patients the cost savings and preservation of natural tooth structure make a filling the better choice. Discuss the pros and cons with your dentist or prosthodontist. Learn more about restorative options at /specialties/prosthodontics.
Financing a Root Canal and Crown
The combined root canal and crown cost can be a significant expense, especially if insurance coverage is limited. Several financing options can help spread the cost over time.
- In-house payment plans: Many dental offices offer interest-free payment plans that let you split the cost into monthly installments.
- CareCredit and Lending Club: Third-party healthcare financing programs that offer promotional 0% interest periods, typically 6 to 24 months. Interest rates after the promotional period can be high, so plan to pay off the balance before the promotion ends.
- HSA and FSA funds: Root canals and crowns are eligible expenses under health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts. Using pre-tax dollars effectively reduces your cost by 20% to 35%, depending on your tax bracket.
- Dental schools: University dental clinics offer root canals and crowns performed by supervised residents at 30% to 50% less than private practice fees.
- Dental discount plans: Annual membership plans ($80 to $200 per year) offer reduced fees at participating providers, typically 15% to 50% off standard pricing.
Find an Endodontist Near You
If you need a root canal, the My Specialty Dentist directory can help you find a qualified endodontist in your area. Every listed endodontist has verified specialty credentials. Search by location to compare experience and schedule a consultation.
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