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How Much Does a Root Canal and Crown Cost? A Complete Guide to Saving Money on Dental Care

May 08, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

The Cost of a Healthy Smile

Dental treatments can be expensive, especially when they involve a root canal and a crown. If you’re dealing with tooth pain, you may be wondering, how much does a root canal and crown cost? While costs vary based on several factors, it’s possible to save money with the right strategies—even without insurance.

In this guide, we will break down the costs of a root canal and crown, compare costs with and without insurance, and explore how in-office membership plans or The Patient Marketplace can help you save.


Understanding Root Canal and Crown Costs

What is a Root Canal and Why Might You Need One?

A root canal is a dental procedure that removes infected or damaged pulp from a tooth, preventing further decay and eliminating pain. If you experience prolonged sensitivity, swelling, or severe tooth pain, a root canal may be necessary.

After the procedure, a crown is usually placed over the treated tooth to protect and restore its function. This two-step treatment is effective but can be costly.

How Much Does a Root Canal and Crown Cost?

The cost of a root canal depends on the complexity of the procedure and the location of the tooth. Here’s a general breakdown:

Tooth Type Root Canal Cost (Without Insurance) Crown Cost (Without Insurance) Total Estimated Cost
Front Tooth $600 – $1,500 $800 – $2,000 $1,400 – $3,500
Premolar $700 – $1,800 $900 – $2,500 $1,600 – $4,300
Molar $1,000 – $2,500 $1,000 – $3,000 $2,000 – $5,500

Factors that Affect Pricing:

  • Geographic Location: Dental care costs more in cities than in rural areas.
  • Dentist’s Expertise: Specialists like endodontists may charge more than general dentists.
  • Materials Used: Crowns can be made of porcelain, metal, or zirconia, each varying in price.

Saving on a Root Canal and Crown With Insurance

If you have dental insurance, your out-of-pocket costs will be significantly lower. Most insurance plans cover 50%–80% of major restorative treatments after meeting the deductible.

Insurance Plan Estimated Coverage Your Cost
PPO Plan 50%-80% coverage $500 – $1,500
HMO Plan Fixed copay rates $400 – $1,200
No Insurance Full price $1,400 – $5,500

Pro Tip: Before scheduling your treatment, check your annual insurance maximums—some plans have limits that may not cover the full cost of both procedures in the same year.


How to Save Without Insurance

If you don’t have dental insurance, there are still ways to lower your costs.

1. Dental Membership Plans: The Affordable Alternative

Many dentists now offer in-office membership plans that provide discounted rates on procedures like root canals and crowns. These plans typically include:
Free preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
Discounts on major procedures
No deductibles, no waiting periods

For example, The Patient Marketplace connects patients with dentists offering affordable membership plans, allowing you to save 20%-50% on treatments.

2. Payment Plans & Financing Options

Many dental offices provide payment plans or third-party financing through companies like:

  • CareCredit – 0% interest for qualified applicants
  • LendingClub – Low-interest installment payments
  • In-house payment plans – Flexible monthly payments

Pro Tip: Ask your dentist if they offer a discount for upfront payments—many clinics provide 5%-15% off for paying in full.

3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Care

Dental schools offer treatments at reduced prices because procedures are performed by students under supervision. This can cut costs by 50% or more while ensuring high-quality care.

4. Get a Second Opinion

Prices vary from dentist to dentist, so shopping around can help you find a better deal. Always get a second opinionbefore committing to an expensive procedure.

5. Consider Discount Dental Plans

Discount dental plans provide savings similar to insurance but without waiting periods or annual maximums. Companies like DentalPlans.com offer membership programs with 10%-60% discounts on root canals and crowns.


A Real-Life Example: How a Patient Saved Over $2,000

Let’s look at a real-life scenario of a patient who saved money on a root canal and crown:

Meet Sarah:

  • Needed a root canal and crown on a molar
  • No dental insurance
  • Quoted $3,800 at a private practice

How She Saved:

  • Found a dentist offering a membership plan via The Patient Marketplace
  • Paid a $250 annual fee for the membership
  • Received a 40% discount, reducing her total cost to $2,200
  • Used CareCredit for a 12-month, interest-free payment plan

Total savings: $1,600 plus flexible payment terms!


Take Action: Find Affordable Dental Care Today

You shouldn’t have to choose between your health and your finances. If you’re wondering, how much does a root canal and crown cost, remember that you have options.

Here’s How You Can Save:

Check if your insurance covers the procedure
Look for dental membership plans to reduce costs
Explore financing options and discount dental plans
Compare prices by getting multiple quotes

Ready to save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist with an affordable membership plan today!


Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a root canal and crown last?
With proper care, a root canal and crown can last 10-15 years or longer. Avoid chewing hard foods and maintain regular dental visits.

Can I get a root canal and crown done on the same day?
Yes, some dentists offer same-day crowns using CEREC technology, allowing you to complete both procedures in one visit.

What happens if I can’t afford a root canal?
If you can’t afford treatment, consider payment plans, discount programs, or dental schools that offer lower-cost care.

Is it cheaper to pull the tooth instead of getting a root canal?
Tooth extraction is cheaper initially, but missing teeth can lead to bone loss and expensive replacements like implants later on. A root canal is usually the better long-term investment.

Will a root canal hurt?
No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, making it virtually painless. Mild soreness after treatment is normal but manageable.


Final Thoughts

Your smile is worth the investment, and with the right approach, you don’t have to overpay for a root canal and crown. Take control of your dental health by exploring affordable options today!

Start saving now at The Patient Marketplace.

Save on Dental, Optometry & Wellness

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Jordon Comstock

Author Bio

Jordon Comstock is the Founder & CEO of BoomCloud™, a software that allows practice, clinic & spa owners to build, manage and scale a membership program. Jordon loves helping patients save on care & writing tips in dentistry, optometry and the spa industries. Jordon is passionate about music, Hawaii, Healthcare businesses like: dentistry, optometry, med spas and massage spas.