Let’s be honest—no one ever gets excited about needing a root canal. But do you know what makes it a whole lot easier? Knowing that you’re covered—or at least partly—by your dental insurance.
At ProGrace Dentistry in NW Calgary, we often hear questions like:
“Does my insurance cover a root canal?”
“How much will I have to pay out-of-pocket?”
“Is it better to wait until next year’s benefits reset?”
We get it. Dental insurance can be confusing, especially when you’re dealing with an unexpected toothache or an emergency appointment. That’s why we’re here to break it down—clearly, creatively, and compassionately—so you can make confident, cost-smart decisions about your dental care.
First Things First: What Is a Root Canal?
A root canal is a restorative dental treatment that removes infected or damaged tissue from inside the tooth. It’s designed to:
- Eliminate pain
- Stop the spread of infection
- Save the natural tooth
- Prevent the need for extraction
At ProGrace Dentistry, we use advanced diagnostic tools and gentle techniques—including sedation options—to make your root canal as smooth and stress-free as possible.
So… Does Insurance Cover It?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover root canal treatment, at least partially.
But (you knew there was a “but,” right?)—the amount your insurance covers depends on:
- Your specific insurance provider
- The type of plan (basic vs. comprehensive)
- Your annual maximums
- Whether or not you’ve met your deductible
- Where the tooth is located (molars may cost more than front teeth)
Let’s take a closer look.
How Much Will My Insurance Cover?
In general, most dental insurance plans in Alberta classify root canal therapy as a “major” or “basic” restorative procedure—and they typically cover 50% to 80% of the cost.
Here’s a sample breakdown for illustrative purposes:
| Procedure | Average Coverage | Out-of-Pocket Cost (Estimate) |
| Root Canal (Front) | 80% | $150–$300 |
| Root Canal (Molar) | 50%–70% | $300–$600 |
| Crown (Post-Root Canal) | 50%–60% | $500–$800 |
Note: These are just general estimates. Our team will help you check your plan and provide an exact quote before starting treatment.
At ProGrace, We Make It Simple
We know the fine print of insurance policies isn’t exactly bedtime reading. That’s why our friendly team offers:
- Free insurance benefit verification
- Detailed cost breakdowns before treatment
- Direct billing to your provider
- ADA Fee Guide–compliant pricing
So you can focus on feeling better, not figuring out paperwork.
Whether it’s your first visit or a follow-up, we’ll walk you through what’s covered, what’s not, and how to make your treatment plan work with your budget—without surprises.
What If I Don’t Have Insurance?
No problem! We believe everyone deserves access to quality dental care—especially when they’re in pain. If you don’t have insurance, we’ll still help you explore:
- Affordable payment plans
- Flexible financing options
- Prioritized treatment scheduling (to spread out costs)
- Staged treatment—doing urgent care now and postponing optional procedures
We’re here to support your oral health journey, regardless of your coverage status.
Should You Wait Until Insurance Resets?
Many plans reset annually (typically in January). So, should you wait?
If you’re in pain or dealing with a deep cavity, the answer is usually no. Delaying a needed root canal can lead to:
- Severe infection
- Abscess formation
- Tooth loss
- Costlier treatments like extractions and implants
Our advice? Use your benefits while you have them. We’ll help you get the most out of your plan—and avoid turning a small problem into a big one.
Insurance Tips for Root Canal Treatment
Here are some smart strategies to stretch your benefits and ease the financial pinch:
- Understand your coverage tiers – Major vs. basic procedures affect reimbursement.
- Maximize annual limits – Start treatment before your yearly cap resets.
- Combine with HSA or FSA – If you have one, it can cover out-of-pocket costs tax-free.
- Ask about multi-year planning – We can sometimes phase treatment across benefit years.
We’re not just your dental team—we’re your dental advocates.
Conclusion: Root Canals Are Worth It—And Often Covered
Root canals might have a bad reputation, but at ProGrace Dentistry, we’re changing that narrative. With modern technology, compassionate care, and insurance-friendly pricing, getting a root canal is no longer something to fear—or financially stress about.
Yes, most dental insurance plans will cover part (or most) of your root canal, especially when diagnosed early. And if you’re uninsured, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Need a Root Canal? Let’s Make It Hassle-Free
If you’re dealing with tooth pain or suspect you need a root canal, don’t put it off. We’re here 7 days a week to offer expert care—with or without insurance.
Visit our clinic at 233-3630 Brentwood Rd NW, Calgary, AB or Call us: 403-288-8080
Let’s restore your smile—comfortably, affordably, and confidently.
FAQs
Is a root canal considered a basic or major procedure by insurance?
This depends on the provider, but it’s often categorized as a basic or major restorative procedure, usually covered at 50–80%.
Does insurance cover the crown needed after a root canal?
Yes, most plans cover crowns separately. Your policy may offer partial coverage under restorative services.
Can I finance the portion not covered by insurance?
Absolutely. We offer payment plans and financing options to help with out-of-pocket costs.
How do I know what my plan covers?
Our team will contact your insurance provider directly to verify your benefits and explain your coverage in detail.
Will I have to pay upfront?
If we can verify your insurance in advance, we offer direct billing to most major providers. You’ll only be responsible for your portion.
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
We’ll help you explore financing or pay-over-time options—and offer clear, honest pricing with no hidden fees.
Should I wait until my insurance resets?
It’s better to treat the problem now before it worsens. Waiting can increase costs and health risks.
