Is Root Canal Cheaper Than a Crown? A Detailed Cost Comparison

When it comes to dental procedures, cost is often a significant factor in decision-making. Two common treatments that patients frequently compare are root canals and dental crowns. Both procedures serve different purposes, but they are often discussed together because a crown is sometimes needed after a root canal to protect the tooth. If you're wondering, "Is a root canal cheaper than a crown?" you're not alone. In this blog post, we’ll break down the costs of both procedures in detail, focusing on the UK market, and help you understand which option might be more affordable for your dental needs.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged teeth. During the treatment, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the root canal, and seals it to prevent further infection. Root canals are typically recommended when the tooth’s nerve is damaged or infected, but the tooth itself can still be saved.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used after a root canal to protect the weakened tooth, but they can also be used for cosmetic purposes or to cover a damaged tooth.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment in the UK

The cost of a root canal in the UK varies depending on the tooth being treated and whether you visit an NHS dentist or a private clinic. Here’s a breakdown:

NHS Root Canal Costs

The NHS has fixed pricing bands for dental treatments. Root canal treatment falls under Band 2, which covers procedures like fillings and extractions. As of 2023, the cost for Band 2 treatment is £70.70. This price is the same regardless of the complexity of the root canal or the tooth being treated.

Private Root Canal Costs

Private root canal treatment costs vary significantly depending on the dentist, location, and the tooth involved. Molar root canals are typically more expensive because they are more complex. Here’s an approximate cost breakdown:

Tooth Type Average Cost (Private)

Incisor or Canine £150 - £300

Premolar £250 - £400

Molar £400 - £700

The molar root canal cost is higher due to the additional time and expertise required.

Cost of Dental Crowns in the UK

Dental crowns are not typically covered under NHS Band 2 unless they are deemed medically necessary. If you need a crown for cosmetic reasons or after a root canal, you’ll likely need to pay privately.

NHS Crown Costs

If the crown is deemed necessary by an NHS dentist, it falls under Band 3, which covers complex procedures like bridges, dentures, and crowns. The cost for Band 3 treatment is £306.80.

Private Crown Costs

Private dental crowns are more expensive, and the cost depends on the material used. Here’s a breakdown:

Crown Material Average Cost (Private)

Porcelain £500 - £800

Metal £400 - £600

Porcelain-fused-to-metal £600 - £900

Zirconia £800 - £1,200

Is a Root Canal Cheaper Than a Crown?

Now that we’ve broken down the costs, let’s compare the two procedures:

NHS Treatment:

Root Canal: £70.70 (Band 2)

Crown: £306.80 (Band 3)

Total: £377.50

On the NHS, a root canal is significantly cheaper than a crown. However, if you need both procedures, the combined cost will be higher.

Private Treatment:

Root Canal: £150 - £700 (depending on the tooth)

Crown: £400 - £1,200 (depending on the material)

Total: £550 - £1,900

Privately, the cost of a root canal is generally lower than a crown, but the total cost can add up if you need both.

Factors Affecting the Cost

Several factors can influence the cost of root canals and crowns:

Location: Dental costs in London and other major cities are often higher than in smaller towns.

Dentist’s Experience: More experienced dentists may charge higher fees.

Tooth Location: Molars are harder to treat, making root canals and crowns for these teeth more expensive.

Material Choice: Crowns made from high-quality materials like zirconia are more expensive than metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.

Do You Always Need a Crown After a Root Canal?

Not every root canal requires a crown. Whether you need a crown depends on the tooth’s condition and location:

Front Teeth: These teeth are less likely to need a crown after a root canal because they experience less pressure during chewing.

Back Teeth (Molars and Premolars): These teeth are more likely to need a crown because they bear the brunt of chewing forces.

If you skip the crown when it’s recommended, the tooth may become weak and prone to cracking, leading to more expensive treatments down the line.

Cost Comparison Table

Here’s a quick summary of the costs for both procedures:

Procedure NHS Cost Private Cost

Root Canal (Incisor) £70.70 £150 - £300

Root Canal (Molar) £70.70 £400 - £700

Dental Crown £306.80 £400 - £1,200

Tips to Save Money on Dental Treatments

NHS Treatment: If you’re eligible, NHS treatments are significantly cheaper than private options.

Dental Insurance: Consider getting dental insurance to cover part of the cost.

Payment Plans: Many private dentists offer payment plans to spread the cost over time.

Compare Dentists: Shop around and compare prices from different dentists to find the best deal.

Conclusion

So, is a root canal cheaper than a crown? The answer is yes, in most cases. A root canal is generally less expensive than a crown, especially on the NHS. However, if you need both procedures, the combined cost can be substantial. It’s essential to consult your dentist to determine the best course of action for your dental health and budget.

If you’re looking for affordable dental care, consider NHS treatment or explore payment plans with private dentists. Remember, investing in your dental health now can save you from more expensive treatments in the future.

By understanding the cost of private root canal treatment, how much for root canal UK, root canal treatment cost UK, and molar root canal cost, you can make an informed decision about your dental care. Whether you choose a root canal, a crown, or both, prioritize your oral health to maintain a beautiful and functional smile.