When your dentist tells you that you need a root canal, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: "How much will this cost?" It's a reasonable concern. Root canal treatment is more complex than a simple filling, and the cost reflects that. But if you've looked at prices from different clinics, you've probably noticed significant variation. Why does one clinic charge significantly more than another for what seems like the same procedure?

The truth is that not all root canals are the same. The cost depends on which tooth is being treated, how complex the root canal system is, what technology is used, and the experience of the dentist performing the procedure. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision and avoid surprises when it's time to pay the bill.

This guide breaks down the cost of root canal treatment in Singapore, explains what you're paying for, and shows you how to use MediSave to reduce your out-of-pocket expense.

Why Do Root Canal Costs Vary?

Root canal treatment involves removing infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and sealing them to prevent reinfection. While the basic process is the same for all teeth, the complexity—and therefore the cost—varies significantly depending on several factors.

Tooth Location: Front Teeth vs Molars

The biggest factor affecting root canal cost is which tooth is being treated. Teeth at the front of your mouth (incisors and canines) have a single, relatively straight root canal. They're easier to access, faster to treat, and therefore less expensive.

Premolars (the teeth between your canines and molars) typically have one or two canals and are moderately complex.

Molars (the large teeth at the back of your mouth) are the most complex and expensive to treat. They have multiple roots—often three or four—and each root can have one or more canals. The canals in molars are often curved, narrow, or calcified, making them more difficult to clean and shape. Molars also require more time, more advanced imaging, and greater expertise.

Number of Canals

Even within the same tooth type, the number of canals can vary. Some premolars have one canal, others have two. Some molars have three canals, others have four or even five. Each canal must be individually cleaned, shaped, and filled, so more canals mean more time and higher cost.

Complexity of the Root Canal System

Not all root canals are straightforward. Some teeth have curved canals, narrow canals, or calcified canals (where the canal has become partially blocked with hard tissue). These cases require more time, specialized instruments, and greater skill to treat successfully.

In some cases, a tooth may have an unusual anatomy—such as an extra canal that's difficult to locate, or a canal that branches into multiple smaller canals. Advanced imaging like CBCT scans can help identify these complexities before treatment begins.

Need for a Crown After Root Canal

Most teeth that have had root canal treatment will need a crown to protect them and restore full function. The cost of the crown is typically separate from the root canal itself, but it's an important part of the total investment.

Front teeth may sometimes be restored with a filling if there's enough healthy tooth structure remaining, but molars almost always require a crown because of the heavy chewing forces they endure.

Technology and Diagnostic Tools

Clinics that invest in advanced technology—such as CBCT imaging, rotary endodontic instruments, and operating microscopes—can provide more precise, predictable treatment. These tools improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications, but they also contribute to the cost.

Dentist Experience and Specialization

A general dentist with experience in root canal treatment may charge less than an endodontist (a specialist in root canal therapy). However, for complex cases—such as retreatment of a failed root canal or a tooth with unusual anatomy—a specialist's expertise may be worth the additional cost.

Typical Cost Ranges for Root Canal Treatment in Singapore

While costs vary by clinic and case complexity, here are general ranges you can expect in Singapore:

Front teeth (incisors and canines): These are the least expensive because they have a single, relatively straight canal and are easy to access.

Premolars: These have one or two canals and are moderately complex, so the cost is higher than for front teeth.

Molars: These are the most expensive because they have multiple canals, complex anatomy, and require more time and expertise.

These are general ranges. Your actual cost will depend on your specific case, the clinic you choose, and any additional procedures required (such as a crown or post).

What's Included in the Root Canal Cost?

When you receive a cost estimate for root canal treatment, it's important to understand what's included. At Shuang Dentistry, we believe in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Here's what's typically included in the cost:

Clinical examination and diagnosis. This is where Dr. James Yap assesses the tooth, reviews your symptoms, and determines whether root canal treatment is necessary.

Diagnostic imaging. X-rays are essential for assessing the extent of the infection and the shape of the root canals. For complex cases, a CBCT scan may be recommended for detailed 3D views.

Local anesthesia. The area around the tooth will be numbed completely so you don't feel pain during the procedure.

The root canal procedure. This includes isolating the tooth, accessing the pulp chamber, removing the infected tissue, cleaning and shaping the canals, and filling them with gutta-percha.

Temporary filling. A temporary filling is placed on top to seal the access opening until the permanent restoration can be completed.

Post-operative medications. You may receive prescriptions for pain medication or antibiotics if needed.

Follow-up visit. A follow-up appointment to check healing and place the permanent restoration (crown or filling) is typically included or scheduled separately.

What's typically NOT included (and may cost extra):

• Crown or permanent filling to restore the tooth (usually done after the root canal)

• Post and core (if needed to support the crown in a heavily damaged tooth)

• Retreatment if the initial root canal doesn't fully resolve the infection (rare)

Additional Costs to Consider

Crown or permanent filling. After the root canal is complete, the tooth needs to be restored to protect it and restore function. For molars, a crown is almost always necessary. The cost of the crown is typically separate from the root canal itself.

Post and core. If the tooth has lost a significant amount of structure due to decay or fracture, a post may be placed inside the root canal to provide support for the crown. This adds to the cost.

Retreatment. In rare cases, a root canal may not fully resolve the infection, or the tooth may become reinfected years later. Retreatment is more complex than the initial root canal and typically costs more.

Using MediSave for Root Canal Treatment

Yes, you can use MediSave for root canal treatment in Singapore. Root canal therapy is an approved procedure under MediSave, which means you can withdraw funds from your MediSave account to help cover the cost.

What Is Covered by MediSave?

Root canal treatment on any tooth is eligible for MediSave withdrawal. This includes the consultation, imaging, the root canal procedure itself, and follow-up care.

How Much Can You Claim?

There are limits on how much you can withdraw from MediSave for dental procedures:

• Per procedure limit: You can claim up to a certain amount per root canal, depending on the complexity.
  
  

• Annual limit: There's a cap on the total amount you can withdraw from MediSave for all outpatient procedures in a given year.
  
  

• Lifetime limit: There's also a lifetime withdrawal limit for outpatient procedures.

The exact amounts are set by the Ministry of Health and are subject to change, so it's best to check the current limits during your consultation.

How to Process Your MediSave Claim

At Shuang Dentistry, we'll help you process your MediSave claim:

1. Consultation and diagnosis: Dr. Yap will assess the tooth and determine whether root canal treatment is necessary.
   
   

2. Eligibility confirmation: We'll confirm that your case qualifies for MediSave and let you know how much you can claim.
   
   

3. Authorization: You'll provide your NRIC and authorize the MediSave withdrawal.
   
   

4. Electronic processing: The claim is processed electronically, and the approved amount is deducted from your MediSave balance. You'll pay the remaining balance out-of-pocket or through other means.

Can You Use CHAS for Root Canal Treatment?

If you're a CHAS (Community Health Assist Scheme) cardholder, you may be eligible for subsidies on certain dental treatments. However, CHAS subsidies for root canal treatment are more limited than for preventive care like scaling and polishing.

It's worth asking about CHAS eligibility during your consultation, especially if you're a Blue, Orange, or Green cardholder. Bring your CHAS card to your appointment so we can help you access any available benefits.

Why Quality Matters: The Cost of Failed Root Canals

While cost is an important consideration, it shouldn't be the only factor in your decision. Root canal treatment is a precise procedure that requires skill, experience, and the right tools. Cutting corners to save money can lead to complications that are far more expensive to fix.

Failed root canals are costly. If a root canal isn't done properly—if a canal is missed, not cleaned thoroughly, or not sealed adequately—the infection can persist or return. Retreatment is more complex and expensive than the initial root canal, and in some cases, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with an implant.

Experience matters. A dentist with extensive experience in root canal therapy is more likely to handle complex cases successfully, minimize discomfort, and ensure a good long-term outcome.

Technology improves outcomes. CBCT imaging helps identify all the canals and any anatomical complexities. Rotary instruments and operating microscopes improve precision and thoroughness. Clinics that invest in these tools can offer safer, more predictable treatment.

Aftercare and support matter. A clinic that provides clear aftercare instructions, accessible follow-up care, and emergency support if complications arise is worth the investment.

Transparent Pricing at Shuang Dentistry

At Shuang Dentistry, we provide transparent, itemized pricing so you know exactly what you're paying for. During your consultation, we'll:

• Examine the affected tooth and take X-rays or a CBCT scan

• Explain what's wrong and why root canal treatment is recommended

• Provide a detailed cost estimate that includes the root canal, imaging, anesthesia, medications, and follow-up care

• Discuss the cost of the crown or permanent filling that will be needed after the root canal

• Explain how much you can claim through MediSave and what your out-of-pocket cost will be

No surprises, no hidden fees—just clear, honest pricing.

Root Canal vs Extraction: Why Saving Your Tooth Matters

When faced with a severely infected or damaged tooth, you might wonder: why not just pull it out? Extraction is certainly an option, and in some cases it may be the best choice. But whenever possible, saving your natural tooth is preferable for several reasons.

Your natural tooth is irreplaceable. No artificial replacement—whether it's a bridge, denture, or implant—functions quite as well as your natural tooth.

Extraction leads to bone loss. When a tooth is removed, the bone that once supported it begins to shrink. Over time, this can affect the shape of your face and make it more difficult to place an implant later.

Replacement options are more expensive and invasive. A dental implant—the best replacement for a missing tooth—typically costs significantly more than a root canal and crown. It also requires surgery, a months-long healing period, and carries its own risks.

Adjacent teeth can shift. When a tooth is missing, the neighboring teeth tend to drift into the empty space, which can affect your bite and make it harder to clean your teeth properly.

That said, there are situations where extraction is the better choice—such as when a tooth is too damaged to restore, when there's severe bone loss, or when the cost of saving the tooth is prohibitive. Dr. Yap will discuss all your options and help you make an informed decision.

Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate Today

Every root canal case is different, and the only way to know exactly what your treatment will cost is to have a consultation and diagnostic imaging.

Call or WhatsApp Shuang Dentistry at +65 6203 0010 to book your root canal consultation. Dr. James Yap will assess your situation, explain your options, and provide a transparent, itemized cost estimate. We'll also help you understand how much you can claim through MediSave and what your final out-of-pocket cost will be.

Don't let cost uncertainty keep you from addressing tooth pain. We're here to provide clear answers and high-quality, affordable care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does a root canal on a molar cost more than on a front tooth?

Molars have multiple roots and canals, complex anatomy, and are harder to access. They require more time, more advanced imaging, and greater expertise, which increases the cost.

2. Can I use MediSave for the crown as well as the root canal?

MediSave typically covers the root canal procedure itself. The crown is usually not covered, but it's worth confirming during your consultation.

3. What if I can't afford the full cost upfront?

Ask about payment plans or financing options. Some clinics offer installment plans. You can also use MediSave to reduce the upfront expense.

4. Is it cheaper to get a root canal at a polyclinic?

Polyclinics may offer lower prices, but wait times can be long. Private clinics offer faster access, more personalized care, and often more advanced technology.

5. How long does a root canal last?

With proper care and a well-fitted crown, a tooth that has had a root canal can last a lifetime.