Are Root Canals Covered By Dental Insurance?

For many patients, a root canal might be one of the most expensive dental procedures that they need. When it comes time to schedule the appointment for a root canal or to pay for it, you may wonder if there is any way to reduce the costs. In some cases, dental insurance can help to successfully reduce what you can expect to pay for a root canal. Here are some things to consider about insurance coverage and root canals.

The good news is that many dental insurance policies provide at least some coverage options for root canals. This includes dental savings plans that you may be able to buy immediately before you schedule a root canal. However, coverage varies by your specific policy. Even two different plans offered by the same dental insurance company may have differing exclusions. The only way to know if your dental insurance plan covers a root canal is to contact your insurance provider to request plan details related to root canals. Even if your dental insurance does not cover the complete procedure, it may cover portions of the dental crown.

If your dental insurance plan has a high deductible, there is a good chance that you'll still have to pay out-of-pocket for the cost of the root canal. A root canal can cost around $1,000. If your deductible is $1,500, you will not receive any discount for the procedure. It does mean that you will be closer to hitting your deductible and you may save on future procedures once you pay out the amount of your agreed-upon deductible.

Some dental insurance plans have waiting periods where you will need to wait until an established timeframe has passed before the plan will cover specific procedures. This may or may not include root canals. Typically, plan subscribers are able to benefit from coverage with lower-cost procedures during a waiting period. This varies based on your plan coverage so it is best to confirm the details with your insurance provider.

If you have recently undergone other dental procedures, it is possible that a root canal would not be covered by your dental insurance plan because you have reached your annual maximum. An annual maximum, or sometimes a lifetime maximum, is the most that your dental insurance plan will pay out for the specific period of time. If you hit your maximum, you will have to pay out-of-pocket or wait for the following year, if applicable, to schedule your root canal procedure. Since infected teeth that require root canals are often painful, this is not always the best option for patients.

We specialize in root canals and are here for you every step of the way. Contact us now at 405-285-5042  to schedule your appointment.