A root canal removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, cleans and seals the canals, and lets you keep the tooth. In New York City the price depends mostly on which tooth it is (molars have more canals) and whether a general dentist or an endodontist does it. Use the calculator to include the crown and your insurance.
Root canal prices in NYC (2026)
| Tooth | General dentist | Endodontist | Canals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front tooth (incisor / canine) | $900–$1,300 | $1,100–$1,600 | 1 |
| Premolar | $1,000–$1,500 | $1,300–$1,800 | 1–2 |
| Molar | $1,300–$1,800 | $1,600–$2,200 | 3–4 |
| Retreatment (molar) | n/a | $1,800–$2,800 | 3–4 |
The full cost: root canal + crown
| Item | Typical NYC price |
|---|---|
| Exam and X-rays | $150–$300 |
| Root canal (molar) | $1,300–$2,200 |
| Core build-up | $250–$450 |
| Porcelain or zirconia crown | $1,200–$2,200 |
| Total, molar | $3,000–$4,500 |
General dentist or endodontist?
Many general dentists do straightforward root canals, especially on front teeth. Endodontists are specialists with two to three extra years of training who work under microscopes. They're the better choice for molars, curved or calcified canals, retreatments and teeth that have already had problems. The higher fee often buys a better chance of saving the tooth.
Root canal vs. extraction
| Option (molar) | Upfront | Long term |
|---|---|---|
| Root canal + crown | $3,000–$4,500 | Keeps your natural tooth; most last decades |
| Extraction only | $250–$450 | Neighboring teeth can shift; chewing suffers |
| Extraction + implant | $4,500–$7,500 | Durable, but surgery and 3–6 months of healing |
How to pay less
- Get a pre-treatment estimate from your insurer before starting.
- Use a dental school: NYU and Columbia endodontic clinics charge significantly less, though appointments take longer.
- Don't delay: an untreated infection can turn a root canal into an extraction, graft and implant.
- Use HSA/FSA funds for the root canal and crown.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a root canal cost in Brooklyn?
In Brooklyn, a root canal typically costs $900–$1,400 for a front tooth and $1,300–$2,000 for a molar in 2026. An endodontist usually charges 15–30% more than a general dentist.
How much does a root canal cost in Manhattan?
Manhattan prices run about $1,100–$1,600 for a front tooth and $1,600–$2,200 or more for a molar at an endodontist's office.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Molars and premolars almost always need a crown because the treated tooth becomes brittle. Front teeth can often be restored with a filling instead.
Does insurance cover root canals?
Most PPO plans cover root canals at 80% after the deductible (some at 50%), and crowns at 50%, up to the annual maximum of typically $1,000–$2,000.
Is it cheaper to pull the tooth than get a root canal?
An extraction costs only $200–$450, but replacing the tooth later with an implant costs $3,800–$6,500. Saving the tooth with a root canal and crown is usually cheaper long term.
How much is root canal retreatment?
Redoing a failed root canal is more complex and costs about 25–40% more than the original treatment, typically $1,500–$2,800 for a molar in NYC.
Sources & methodology
Prices are compiled from published provider price lists, government fee schedules and quotes, then adjusted for 2026. See how we price.