Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Root Canal Retreatment Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Anterior Tooth Retreatment | $800 – $1,200 | $250 – $400 |
| Premolar Retreatment | $900 – $1,400 | $300 – $500 |
| Molar Retreatment | $1,000 – $1,800 | $350 – $600 |
| Apicoectomy (surgical) | $1,000 – $2,500 | $350 – $800 |
CPT/ADA Code: D3346
What Affects the Cost
- Geographic location (urban areas cost 20-40% more)
- Dentist experience and specialization
- Type of dental insurance plan (PPO vs HMO/DHMO)
- Whether the procedure is classified as preventive, basic, or major
- Lab and material costs
- Number of teeth or surfaces involved
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: 50-80% (classified as endodontic retreatment)
Most dental PPO plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,500. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is typically covered at 100%. Basic procedures (fillings, simple extractions) at 70-80%. Major procedures (crowns, bridges, implants) at 50%. Many plans have a 6-12 month waiting period for major work.
How to Save Money
- Dental schools offer procedures at 50-70% discount
- Dental discount plans save 20-50% for $80-$200/year
- Ask about payment plans — many dentists offer CareCredit 0% financing
- Community health centers provide sliding-scale pricing
- Get quotes from 2-3 dentists in your area
- Consider dental tourism for expensive procedures
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
A root canal can fail due to missed canals, new decay, cracked tooth, or reinfection. About 5-15% of root canals eventually need retreatment.
Retreatment is preferred if the tooth is otherwise healthy and salvageable. Success rates for retreatment are 75-85%. If the tooth has a fracture, extraction may be the only option.
Yes — most dental plans cover retreatment at 50-80%, the same as the original root canal. Some plans have a waiting period before covering retreatment on the same tooth.