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Updated: February 26, 2025
When it comes to tooth pain, there’s no ignoring it—it demands your attention, and fast. Unfortunately, tooth infections don’t tend to improve on their own.
A root canal can offer a long-term solution, eliminating pain and saving your tooth—but how much does a root canal cost in Chicago?
From understanding insurance coverage to learning about the factors that influence the price, this guide will help you weigh the investment against the benefits of preserving your natural teeth and avoiding future complications.
The cost of a root canal in Chicago largely depends on the location and type of tooth being treated. Typically, molars are more expensive due to their complexity and additional canals, while front teeth are less costly.
| Type of Tooth | Average Cost | With Insurance |
| Front teeth (incisors) | $700–$1,100 | $300–$600 |
| Premolars | $800–$1,300 | $400–$700 |
| Molars | $1,000–$1,600 | $500–$800 |
Without insurance, the full cost of a root canal in Chicago typically falls between $700 and $1,600, depending on the type and location of the tooth.
Insurance often covers 50–80% of the cost, leaving patients with significantly reduced out-of-pocket expenses. For example, if a molar root canal costs $1,200, insurance could reduce the patient’s expense to $240–$600.
For uninsured patients, paying out of pocket can feel overwhelming, but many Chicago dentists provide flexible financing options, such as payment plans or third-party financing services like CareCredit.
Neglecting treatment, however, can lead to more extensive and costly dental problems in the future.
The cost of a root canal depends on several factors, including the type of tooth treated, the complexity of the procedure, and whether additional treatments are required.
Understanding these variables can help you plan for your treatment costs and discuss payment options with your dentist.
The type of tooth being treated greatly impacts cost. Front teeth (incisors and canines) are less expensive, averaging $700–$1,100 because they typically have one canal.
Premolars, with one or two canals, cost more—$800–$1,300 on average. Molars are the most expensive, at $1,000–$1,600, due to having three or more canals and requiring more time and expertise to treat.
The complexity of the root canal plays a major role in cost. Simple cases with straightforward access and minimal infection are quicker and less expensive.
However, teeth with curved or blocked canals or severe infection and retreatment cases require specialized techniques, increasing the cost. More complex cases may also necessitate treatment by an endodontist, which can further raise expenses.
Additional procedures, such as placing a crown, can significantly impact the total cost. Crowns typically cost $800–$2,500, depending on the material.
Bonding cracks or repairing surrounding tooth structures can also increase costs. In some cases, dentists may need to perform a buildup or add posts inside the tooth for support, which adds to the expense.
Local anesthesia, included in most root canal prices, keeps the procedure affordable. Sedation options like nitrous oxide or oral sedatives cost extra, often ranging from $100 to $500.
Intravenous (IV) sedation or general anesthesia, used for patients with severe anxiety or complex procedures, can add $500 or more to the total.
Insurance can greatly reduce the cost of a root canal. Most dental insurance plans cover 50–80% of the procedure cost, leaving patients with a lower out-of-pocket expense. Without insurance, patients are responsible for the full cost, which averages $700–$1,600.
A root canal offers several critical benefits that go beyond pain relief. Here’s how root canal treatment can improve your dental health and overall well-being:
A root canal is typically completed in one or two visits and involves several precise steps to ensure the tooth is properly treated.
First, your dentist or endodontist will numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.
Once the tooth is numb, a small opening is made in the crown to access the infected pulp. Using specialized tools, the dentist carefully removes the damaged pulp and cleans out the root canals to eliminate bacteria and debris.
Next, the cleaned canals are shaped and disinfected to prepare them for filling. A biocompatible material, typically gutta-percha, is used to seal the canals and prevent future infection.
The tooth opening is then temporarily or permanently sealed. In many cases, a crown is placed at a subsequent appointment to restore strength and functionality to the tooth.
Proper aftercare is essential to ensure a successful recovery, promote healing, and protect your treated tooth:
The primary alternative to a root canal is tooth extraction. If the tooth is too damaged or the infection too severe to be saved, extraction may be necessary.
Once a tooth is removed, it must typically be replaced to maintain proper alignment, chewing function, and aesthetics. Common replacement options include dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures.
Other less common alternatives include palliative care (managing pain without addressing the infection) or attempting a reversible pulp cap for minor damage, though these options are typically temporary and less effective for severe infections.
Ultimately, root canal treatment remains the preferred solution for saving a natural tooth whenever possible, as it preserves your smile and prevents the need for more complex restorative work.
Delaying treatment for an infected tooth can lead to serious consequences, including worsening pain, the spread of infection, and even tooth loss. A root canal offers a safe and effective way to save your natural tooth and protect your oral health.
While concerns about cost or discomfort may cause hesitation, the reality is that untreated dental issues can result in far more extensive and expensive problems in the future.
Don’t wait until tooth problems become an emergency—schedule an appointment today with Forever Dental, a leading dental clinic on Belmont Avenue, to take control of your oral health and preserve your smile for years to come.
What determines if you need a root canal?
A root canal is needed when the pulp inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected, often due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms like persistent pain, sensitivity to heat or cold, and swelling often signal the need for treatment.
Do they put you to sleep for a root canal?
Most root canals are done with local anesthesia to numb the area, so you remain awake but free of pain. Sedation options, like nitrous oxide or oral sedatives, are available if you're anxious. General anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, is rarely needed.
How bad is a root canal?
A root canal isn't as bad as its reputation suggests. With modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is typically no more painful than getting a cavity filled. Post-procedure discomfort is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Do I need a crown after root canal?
In most cases, a crown is recommended after a root canal to restore strength and protect the tooth. Molars bear more chewing force and almost always require crowns. Front teeth may need crowns if weakened or aesthetically compromised.
