Root Canal Treatment Cost: A Comprehensive Guide

Let’s be honest - we all dream of a healthy smile which will help us to stay physically, mentally, and socially sound. If a dental problem such as a tooth decay is left untreated, it can get worse, sometimes requiring RCT.

RCT, or root canal treatment, is a procedure used to remove infected tissue from inside the tooth, relieve pain, and preserve the natural tooth, helping to support long-term oral health. However, concerns related to the cost of root canal treatment may sometimes arise.

While root canals can be expensive, lack of clear and reliable information can add to your concerns. Many people are unsure of the actual cost, so they may delay the treatment based on incomplete information. This blog outlines the factors linked to root canal treatment cost and how to navigate dental treatment in Singapore for optimal dental health.

Understanding Root Canal Treatment

So what is RCT, or root canal treatment? RCT is a dental procedure that helps to remove inflamed dental pulp from the inside of tooth caused by an untreated infection. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth. Factors such as plaque and food debris can lead to cavities or infection, causing tooth ache. Root canal treatment can help relieve chronic pain. This supports your long-term oral wellness.

Root canal process generally starts with anaesthesia, followed by infected pulp removal, cleaning, and filling of the cavity. In most cases, the treatment ends with dental crown placement to strengthen the root-canal treated teeth.

With this procedure, you can save a severely infected tooth. This also helps patients enjoy their favourite meals without discomfort or pain.

When Do You Need A Root Canal Treatment?

RCT is often seen as an effective way to restore a damaged tooth and prevent further discomfort. There are certain times when your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment, such as when:

• There is a large cavity in your tooth due to prolonged decay
• You are experiencing extreme tooth pain for a long time
• Internal or external dental trauma caused from accidental injury
• When the infection spreads to the surrounding gum tissue
• A damaged tooth even after repeated dental procedures
• A cracked or chipped tooth causing trouble
  
  
  

What is the Average Root Canal Treatment Cost in Singapore?

Root canal procedure is a common dental procedure in Singapore as it addresses various types of tooth and gum issues. The cost varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and the tooth involved. There are different costs for front teeth, molars, and premolars. The cost is comparatively higher for the molars due to the complexity of the process. Meanwhile, the root canal treatment cost for the front tooth is lower.

The exact cost is determined by an individualised treatment plan created by your dentist, taking into account factors such as the tooth’s location, the number of canals, and any additional treatments that may be required. In emergency cases, a procedure called emergency pulp extirpation can relieve pain by accessing the inner part of the tooth, but this should always be followed by a complete root canal treatment for long-term resolution.

During your consultation, your dentist will provide a detailed cost breakdown and discuss alternative options, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.

What are the Factors Influencing Root Canal Treatment Cost?

RCT is integral to restore a severely decayed tooth. The factors influencing the cost of RCT may vary, depending on:

1. Location of Tooth

The position of the tooth affects the complexity of the procedure and, therefore, the cost. Molars at the back of the mouth typically have more root canals and a more intricate internal structure, making treatment costlier. Front teeth generally have lesser number of canals, while premolars fall in between.

2. Type Of Provider: General Dentist or Endodontist

RCT may be performed by either a general dentist or an root canal specialist, known as an Endodontist. An Endodontist is a dentist who specialises in root canal procedures and has training and experience in managing more complex cases, such as teeth with multiple canals or unusual anatomy. Because of this specialised expertise, treatment with an Endodontist will typically cost more than with a general dentist.

A general dentist is fully trained to perform root canal treatment for most routine cases. Both options are reliable and effective; the difference in cost mainly reflects the complexity of the case and the level of specialised training. In addition to this, the cost will vary for public hospitals and private practices around Singapore.

During your consultation, your dentist will help you determine the option that is ideal for you. Click here to read more on whether you require a general dentist or an Endodontist for your root canal treatment.

3. Dental Insurance

Insurance coverage plays a pivotal role in determining your total expense for an RCT and it can also help to lower out-of-the-pocket costs. Coverage depends on your specific plan, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider. You can also find more about Dental Designs Clinic’s insurance partners here.

4. MediSave

MediSave is Singapore’s national medical savings scheme that allows individuals to set aside funds for approved healthcare expenses. Currently, it covers surgical dental procedures, and as RCT is not a surgical procedure, it is not included. Starting January 2026, Flexi-MediSave began providing partial coverage (up to $400) for RCT and permanent dental crowns, specifically for seniors aged 60 and above to help manage the cost of these treatments. Find out more.

5. Dental Crown after RCT

It is advisable to get a tooth crown after root canals, especially for the molars. It stabilises the foundation and prevents further damage while the tooth is still recovering. This involves an additional cost. Read more in this article about why dental crowns are recommended after RCT.

Related Articles

• What Is Root Canal Treatment?
  
• Root Canal Treatment Cost Singapore: All You Need To Know

How To Manage Your Root Canal Treatment Cost?

Tooth pain can be uncomfortable, and root canal treatment (RCT) is often recommended to relieve it. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage the cost of RCT:

• Cost Comparison: Compare prices of shortlisted providers and request for detailed quotes from them. It is important to get clarity about additional charges that could arise during or after treatment.
• Insurance Support: Speak with your insurance provider to understand how much of the treatment cost is covered. This will help pre-calculate your out-of-the-pocket costs and plan everything accordingly.
• Payment Plans: Many clinics offer flexible payment options to make treatment more affordable. Ask about instalment plans that suit your budget.
• Oral Care: They say prevention is better than cure. Regular dental visits, early diagnosis and treatment of tooth issues can help avoid complex, and often costly, procedures in the future. Maintaining good oral hygiene is therefore essential for keeping your teeth healthy.
  
  
  

Conclusion

Root canal treatment not only restores a severely decayed tooth, but also makes you confident in your smile. After the treatment, you can enjoy your favourite food and drinks without worrying about tooth sensitivity or pain (toothache).

With proper planning, one can overcome the challenges linked to root canal treatment cost, such as by knowing how to proceed by choosing the suitable provider or ensuring they get the most out of their dental coverage.

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