How much does root canal treatment cost in Australia?

The cost of this procedure in Australia ranges from $900 to $3400, depending on a variety of circumstances. 

Root canal therapy is a popular dental operation that tries to salvage a damaged or infected tooth by removing the diseased pulp and sealing the inner tooth. 

The price range for root canal cost therapy is outlined below: 

Tooth Type  Average Cost Range 
Front Tooth (Incisor/Canine)  $900 – $1,500 
Premolar  $1,200 – $1,800 
Molar  $1,500 – $2,500 
Retreatment or Complicated Cases  $2,000 – $3,400 

It’s important to note that these are approximate figures, and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your specific case. Our family dental clinic at Beautiful Dental Care offer specialised dental services and offer custom solutions by assessing your specific situation. 

What is root canal? 

Root canal treatment involves eliminating the infected or inflamed pulp, washing and sanitising the inside of the tooth, and sealing it with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. This method is intended to save the natural tooth and avoid the need for extraction. 

Inside a tooth there is soft tissue pulp containing nerves and blood vessels inside the core or the deepest section of the tooth. 

The pulp can become infected when inflamed from deep tooth decay, numerous dental procedures, or perhaps a crack or chip in the tooth, it can cause severe pain and potentially lead to an abscess. 

What’s Involved in a Root Canal Procedure? 

A root canal procedure typically involves the following steps: 

  1. Anaesthesia: Our dentists will numb the area around the affected tooth to help ease patients and make the procedure as pain-free as possible. 
  2. Pulp Removal: An opening is created in the tooth’s crown to access the pulp chamber and root canals. The infected or inflamed pulp is then carefully removed. 
  3. Cleaning and Disinfection: The inside of the tooth, including the root canals, is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any remaining bacteria or debris. 
  4. Filling and Sealing: After the tooth is cleaned, the tooth is then filled and sealed with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha to prevent future infections. 
  5. Temporary Filling or Crown: In some cases, a temporary filling or crown may be placed to protect the tooth until a permanent restoration can be completed. 
  6. Permanent Restoration: Once the root canal is completed, the tooth will need a permanent restoration, such as a filling or a crown, to restore its function and appearance. 

The entire procedure may require one or more visits, depending on the complexity of the case. 

The Benefits of Root Canal 

Model of tooth with arrow, tooth brush and tooth paste on blue background. Teeth protection concept. 3d illustration

Root canal treatment offers several benefits, including:

  • Preserves Natural Tooth: A root canal can save your natural tooth and eliminate the need for extraction, which can result in additional dental operations and costs. 
  • Relieves Pain: An infected or inflamed pulp causes considerable pain, which root canal treatment successfully relieves. 
  • Prevents Infection Spread: Removing the infected pulp stops the infection from spreading to other teeth or surrounding tissues, which can lead to more significant dental and health complications. 
  • Restores Functionality: Following the root canal and restoration, with your treated tooth you can resume normal chewing and biting. 
  • Maintains Jawbone Health: Keeping your natural tooth helps to preserve the integrity of your jawbone, minimising bone loss that might occur following tooth extraction. 
  • Improves Appearance: A permanent restoration, such as a crown, can help with the root canal treated tooth and can restore the natural appearance of your teeth. 

Common FAQ’s 

Is root canal therapy covered by health insurance? 

Many private health insurance policies in Australia cover a portion of the cost of root canal treatment under their “major dental” or “endodontic” coverage. However, the extent of coverage can vary depending on your specific policy and the level of coverage you have chosen. 

You should always check with your health insurance provider to understand the details of your coverage, including any waiting periods, annual limits, and out-of-pocket expenses. 

Some policies may cover a percentage of the cost, while others may have a set fee schedule or a maximum claimable amount. 

Is it cheaper to pull a tooth or root canal? 

When it comes to the cost of dental procedures, both tooth extraction and root canal treatment can be significant expenses. 

However, in most cases, a root canal tends to be more expensive than a simple tooth extraction.

Though it’s cheaper to remove a tooth, getting a replacement can be costly and complicated sometimes. 

A root canal treatment is a more complex and time-consuming procedure that aims to save the natural tooth by removing the infected or inflamed pulp from the root canal system and sealing it. 

On the other hand, a tooth extraction is generally a more straightforward procedure that involves removing the entire tooth from the jawbone. 

How Beautiful Dental Care Can Help You? 

At Beautiful Dental Care, we understand the importance of preserving your natural teeth and maintaining optimal oral health. Our experienced dentists in Burwood are skilled in performing root canal treatments using the latest techniques and state-of-the-art equipment. 

Our team will guide you through every step of the process, addressing any concerns or questions you may have. 

If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity, or any other symptoms that may indicate the need for a root canal, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. 

Our compassionate staff will provide a thorough examination and recommend the best course of action to restore your dental health and beautiful smile. 

Contact Beautiful Dental Care today to learn more about our root canal treatment services and how our dentist In Gordon can help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile that lasts a lifetime.