Dental pain can be one of the most uncomfortable and difficult experiences to manage. When your dentist suggests a root canal, cost is often the first concern. Understanding the Root Canal Treatment Cost helps patients make informed decisions and avoid surprises later. In India, the price for a root canal varies widely depending on the city, complexity, clinic type, tooth condition, dentist experience, and crown material.
This article explains everything you need to know about Root Canal Treatment, including costs in various Indian cities, government hospital charges, price-determining factors, and helpful budgeting tips.
What Is Root Canal Treatment?
Root Canal Treatment involves removing the infected pulp tissue inside a tooth. The pulp can become infected due to:
Deep cavities
Cracked or chipped teeth
Repeated dental procedures
Trauma or injury
When the pulp is damaged, bacteria multiply and can lead to abscesses, severe pain, swelling, and even bone loss. Without proper treatment, the infection may spread and require extraction.
The root canal procedure includes:
Cleaning the canals
Removing infected pulp
Disinfecting the area
Shaping the canals
Filling with biocompatible material
Sealing the tooth
Most treated teeth require a crown afterward to restore strength and function. Compared to extraction, a root canal allows you to preserve your natural tooth, which helps maintain jawbone strength and chewing capability.
Why Do Root Canal Treatment Costs Vary?
When researching Root Canal Treatment Cost in India, patients quickly notice that costs differ significantly. This is because several factors influence the price, including:
Location of the clinic
Experience and specialization of the dentist
Type of equipment used
Number of tooth canals
Level of infection
Crown material
Clinic reputation
Follow-up care
Molars are often more expensive because they have multiple roots and canals, making the procedure more time-consuming. A front tooth, in comparison, is simpler and cheaper.
Root Canal Treatment Cost in India (General Approximation)
Below is a general price table showing how tooth type affects cost.
Cost by Tooth Type
| Type of Tooth | Government Hospital Approx. | Private Clinic Approx. | Premium Clinic Approx. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front teeth (incisors) | ₹ 500 – ₹ 1,500 | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 5,000 | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 8,000 |
| Canines | ₹ 800 – ₹ 2,000 | ₹ 3,500 – ₹ 6,000 | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 9,000 |
| Premolars | ₹ 1,500 – ₹ 3,000 | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 7,000 | ₹ 7,000 – ₹ 10,000 |
| Molars | ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 4,000 | ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 10,000 | ₹ 10,000 – ₹ 15,000 |
Molars cost more due to complex root structures requiring additional time, equipment, and expertise.
Crown Cost After Root Canal Treatment
Since an RCT weakens tooth structure, a crown is recommended. Crown costs vary:
Metal Crowns: ₹ 2,000 – ₹ 3,500
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal: ₹ 3,500 – ₹ 8,000
Zirconia or Full Ceramic: ₹ 6,000 – ₹ 12,000+
A durable crown can extend the tooth's lifespan significantly.
Root Canal Treatment Cost in Indian Cities
Prices change depending on where you live. Metropolitan cities have higher operational costs, so treatment tends to be more expensive.
| City | Government Hospital Cost | Private Clinic Cost | Premium Clinic Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangalore | ₹ 1,000 – ₹ 3,000 | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 8,000 | ₹ 8,000 – ₹ 12,000 |
| Kerala | ₹ 800 – ₹ 2,500 | ₹ 3,500 – ₹ 7,000 | ₹ 7,000 – ₹ 10,000 |
| Pune | ₹ 1,200 – ₹ 3,500 | ₹ 4,500 – ₹ 8,500 | ₹ 8,500 – ₹ 12,000 |
| Chennai | ₹ 1,000 – ₹ 3,000 | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 8,000 | ₹ 8,000 – ₹ 11,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹ 800 – ₹ 2,000 | ₹ 3,000 – ₹ 6,500 | ₹ 6,500 – ₹ 9,000 |
| Delhi | ₹ 1,000 – ₹ 3,000 | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 10,000 | ₹ 10,000 – ₹ 15,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹ 1,000 – ₹ 3,000 | ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 8,500 | ₹ 8,500 – ₹ 12,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹ 1,500 – ₹ 4,000 | ₹ 5,000 – ₹ 12,000 | ₹ 12,000 – ₹ 18,000 |
Highlight: Root canal treatment costs in Hyderabad
Hyderabad offers moderate pricing compared to cities like Mumbai or Delhi. Expect around:
Front teeth: ₹ 4,000 – ₹ 6,000
Molars: ₹ 7,000 – ₹ 12,000+
Root Canal Treatment Cost in Government Hospital
Government hospitals and dental colleges provide highly affordable treatment. Common cost ranges:
₹ 500 to ₹ 3,000
Advantages:
✅ Low pricing
✅ Supervised by professionals
✅ Emergency care available
Limitations:
❌ Long waiting queues
❌ Limited appointment flexibility
❌ Basic materials compared to premium clinics
Still, for budget-sensitive patients, this is a practical option.
Factors That Influence Root Canal Pricing
Understanding the cost breakdown helps patients avoid confusion.
1. Tooth Position
Back teeth are more complex.
2. Materials Used
High-quality disinfectants and sealing materials cost more.
3. Technology
Microscopes, lasers, rotary files increase accuracy but raise price.
4. Restoration Needs
Post and core buildup additional.
5. Doctor Expertise
Endodontists usually charge more than general dentists.
6. Number of Visits
Severe infections require multiple sittings and antibiotics.
Single vs Multi-Visit Root Canal
Single-Visit RCT
Quick
Less chair time
Higher initial cost
Multi-Visit RCT
Ideal for severe infections
More affordable per visit
Requires more follow-ups
Your dentist decides which is suitable based on condition and infection level.
Is Root Canal Painful?
Thanks to local anesthesia, patients usually feel:
Pressure sensations
Mild discomfort
Temporary soreness post-procedure
Modern techniques ensure minimal pain, making RCT a comfortable experience.
Signs You May Need a Root Canal
Persistent pain while chewing
Sensitivity to hot/cold foods
Tooth discoloration
Swollen gums
Prolonged pain after temperature change
Cracked or damaged tooth
Ignoring these symptoms can worsen infection and increase costs later.
Is Root Canal Treatment Worth the Cost?
Absolutely. Benefits include:
✅ Saves your natural tooth
✅ Avoids expensive implants or bridges later
✅ Relieves pain
✅ Restores chewing efficiency
✅ Protects oral health long-term
Delaying treatment can lead to:
Abscesses
Bone loss
Tooth extraction
Spread of infection
Extraction might seem cheaper, but replacing a tooth later (with an implant or bridge) becomes far more expensive.
How to Budget Smartly for Root Canal Treatment
Request full cost details upfront
Ask if crowns are included
Compare clinics
Ask about follow-up visit charges
Inquire about EMI options
Check dental insurance coverage
Some insurance plans reimburse partial RCT cost.
Tips to Reduce Root Canal Treatment Cost
Visit a dental college clinic
Seek treatment before infection spreads
Maintain oral hygiene to prevent decay
Attend regular dental check-ups
Root Canal Aftercare Tips
To ensure lasting results:
Avoid chewing hard foods for a few days
Brush gently
Take prescribed medications
Attend follow-ups
Get a crown as recommended
Skipping the crown can lead to tooth fracture.
Conclusion
Root Canal Treatment Cost in Indian Cities varies depending on region, clinic type, and complexity. While government hospitals offer budget-friendly treatment, premium clinics provide advanced technologies and comfort.
Avoid delaying treatment due to cost concerns—early intervention prevents complications and saves the natural tooth. Ultimately, a root canal is a wise investment in oral health, comfort, and long-term function.
Tags : Root Canal Treatment Cost