Cost compared
| Root canal + crown | Extraction alone | Extraction + implant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost (no insurance) | $1,500-$4,500 | $100-$600 | $3,500-$6,500 |
| Keeps your natural tooth | Yes | No | No |
| Visits | 2-3 | 1 | 4-6 over months |
See root canal cost, crown cost, extraction cost and implant cost.
When a root canal usually makes sense
- The tooth has enough healthy structure to restore.
- It’s a front tooth or an important chewing tooth.
- You want to avoid gaps, shifting teeth and bone loss.
When extraction may make sense
- The tooth is cracked below the gumline or too damaged to restore.
- Severe gum disease has destroyed supporting bone.
- Cost is the deciding factor and the tooth isn’t needed for chewing or appearance (for example, some wisdom teeth).
Don’t forget the gap
A missing tooth can let neighbors drift and the bone shrink. Replacement options include an implant, bridge or partial denture.
General information, not dental or medical advice. Your dentist will recommend what’s right for your tooth.
