The True Cost of Root Canal Treatment in India (2025): What You Pay for & Why It Matters.

cost of root canal treatment


Root Canal Treatment (RCT) is the most common dental treatment.

It is also one of the most misunderstood, especially when it comes to the cost of Root Canal Treatment.

Understanding the true cost of a root canal goes beyond simply knowing the price tag.

Visit The Dentist today to understand the nuances. Or speak with our Doctor directly at +91-9971711810. Schedule your appointment now.


THE DENTIST – An Advanced Dental Care facility focused on Saving Your Natural Teeth. At THE DENTIST, we believe that nothing beats your natural teeth. That’s why our approach is centered on preserving them for as long as possible, with the right diagnosis, advanced techniques, and gentle care. With over 20 years of combined experience, our senior doctors bring expertise from some of Delhi NCR’s top hospitals. We offer a wide range of treatments including Root Canals, Dental Implants, Invisible Aligners, Crowns & Bridges, Teeth Whitening, and more — all tailored to your specific needs. Our core team of doctors include Dr Srishti Jauhar, an expert in Root Canal Treatments (3000+ RCTs done so far); Dr Anurag Singh, an expert in Dental Implants (3000+ Dental Implants done so far) & Dr Karan Bhalla an expert in Dental Aligners & Braces (600+ Invisible Aligners executed so far). At THE DENTIST, we combine science, skill, and sensitivity to help you hold on to your natural smile, longer.

Learn more about our Doctors.

Read our Patient Reviews.


Know the true cost of Teeth Whitening in 2025.

Learn about the true cost of Dental Implants in 2025.

Explore the true cost of Tooth Crowns in 2025.


Root Canal Treatment (RCT, as it’s popularly known) is one of the most common dental procedures recommended in India today.

If you’ve ever experienced intense toothache, sudden sensitivity, or an infection in your gums, chances are your dentist may have advised a root canal.

But if you’ve begun exploring the treatment, one thing likely stands out: the wide variation in cost.

You may hear a price as low as ₹1,500 from a local clinic, while a specialist clinic may quote you ₹12,000 or more for the same procedure.

So, what’s the real cost of a Root Canal in India in 2025?

And more importantly, what exactly are you paying for?

Is a cheaper treatment saving you money, or setting you up for trouble later?

Let’s decode the true cost of Root Canal Treatment in India in 2025.

First, understand Root Canal Treatment.

A Root Canal is a dental procedure used to treat infection or inflammation inside a tooth.

Instead of extracting the infected tooth, the dentist removes the diseased pulp (nerve tissue), cleans the inside, disinfects the canals, and fills and seals the space.

This not only preserves the natural tooth but also eliminates the pain and prevents future infection.

When is an RCT needed?

  • Severe toothache (especially while chewing)
  • Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
  • Swelling or tenderness around a tooth
  • Discoloration of a tooth
  • A recurring pimple on the gums (possible abscess)

In short, RCT saves your natural tooth (and saves you from extraction).

What happens during a Root Canal Treatment?

Many patients fear the unknown.

Here’s what you can expect:

Consultation & Diagnosis
Digital X-rays and, if needed, 3D imaging help us locate the infection precisely.

Local Anesthesia
We use pain-blocking techniques so you feel nothing during the procedure.

Cleaning the Canals
Using rotary endodontics, we remove infected tissue and shape the canals.

Filling & Sealing
The canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.

Crowning (if needed)
A crown is placed to restore function and strength, especially in molars.

Post-Treatment Care
You’ll receive easy aftercare instructions and a follow-up call to check recovery.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment in India (2025) – based on case complexity.

Case ComplexityPremium Dental Clinic
(Experienced Doctor + Advanced Instruments)
Average Dental Clinic
(Basic Setup + Standard Instruments)
Simple Case – Single canal, front tooth, minimal infection, no crown₹7,000 – ₹8,000₹1,500 – ₹3,000
Moderate Case – Premolar (2 canals), mild infection, crown needed₹9,000 – ₹10,000₹3,500 – ₹5,500
Complex Case – Molar (3–4 canals), deep infection, curved roots₹11,000 – ₹12,000₹4,000 – ₹7,000
Re-RCT (Failed Previous RCT) – Needs full retreatment with advanced tools₹12,000 – ₹15,000₹5,000 – ₹8,000

(Please note that these are indicative prices. Always get a personalised quote tailoured to your tooth condition.)

What drives the difference in the cost of Root Canal Treatment?

FactorPremium Dental ClinicAverage Dental Clinic
DentistEndodontist with 15-20 years experienceBDS/Junior Dentist with 0–5 yrs
ToolsRotary, apex locator, microscope, rubber dam, CBCTManual files, standard X-rays
ComfortPainless injection systems, single sittingTraditional anesthesia, Multiple sittings
Infection ControlISO-class sterilization, one-use instrumentsBasic sterilization
Crown MaterialCAD-CAM Zirconia / EmaxMetal-ceramic / Acrylic
Patient Follow-upDedicated care, post-op supportMinimal or none

What you’re really paying for when you cover the cost of Root Canal Treatment?

Patients often assume RCT is a simple, one-step process, but in reality, multiple clinical, material, and expertise-related components go into it.

🦷 1. Dentist’s Expertise & Specialisation

RCT is a highly technical procedure.

A general dentist might charge less, but a trained Endodontist (RCT specialist) brings more precision, especially in complex canals.

Their experience significantly reduces the chances of reinfection or failure.

What adds to cost:

  • Years of specialization
  • Advanced diagnostic ability
  • Higher success rates

🔬 2. Technology & Tools Used

Modern dental clinics often invest heavily in technology that enhances RCT outcomes.

Examples:

TechnologyWhy It Matters
Rotary EndodonticsFaster, more precise cleaning of canals
Apex LocatorsAccurate length measurement of canal
Digital X-rays / CBCTBetter diagnosis, less radiation
Dental Operating Loupes/MicroscopeDetects hidden canals, cracks
Rubber Dam IsolationInfection control and moisture-free field

Naturally, clinics using this tech may charge more, but offer safer, faster, and higher-quality care.

⚙️ 3. Quality of Materials

RCT involves:

  • Irrigation solutions
  • Biocompatible filling materials (e.g., Gutta Percha)
  • Sealing agents
  • Composite core build-up
  • Crown cementation

High-end clinics use imported or certified materials that provide better sealing, longer tooth life, fewer complications.

🧼 4. Infection Control Protocols

Especially post-COVID, sterilization and hygiene have become non-negotiable. A clinic using:

  • Class B autoclaves
  • UV cabinets
  • Disposable syringes & instruments
  • PPE kits
  • Rubber dams

All this adds to your safety. And it also adds marginally to the cost.

⏱️ 5. Number of Appointments

RCTs can range from single-sitting to 3–4 visits, depending on:

  • The severity of infection
  • Whether it’s a primary or re-treatment
  • Tooth anatomy

More Sittings = More Chair Time = Slightly Higher Cost.

The real risks of a cheap Root Canal Treatment.

Cutting corners in dental care, especially in RCT, can be disastrous.

Cheap RCT May Result InConsequence
Incomplete canal cleaningPersistent infection
Improper sealingBacterial re-entry & pain
Skipped crown placementTooth fracture
Poor sterilizationCross-infection risk
Failure to spot extra canalsTreatment failure

A failed RCT often needs a Re-RCT, Apicoectomy, or Tooth extraction, all of which are costlier and more painful.

7 reasons why Root Canal Treatments fail?

While root canals have high success rates, 5–15% of RCTs can fail, mostly due to avoidable reasons.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Missed/Untreated Canals

  • Back molars often have extra canals (e.g., MB2 in upper molars).
  • If a canal is not located or cleaned, infection persists.
  • Prevention: Use of microscope or CBCT ensures all canals are found.

2. Incomplete cleaning or disinfection of tooth

  • If debris, bacteria, or infected pulp remain, the infection returns.
  • This is common with manual file techniques or in rushed RCTs.
  • Solution: Rotary endodontics + apex locators improve accuracy.

3. Poor sealing of the treated canals

  • If the root canal filling (gutta-percha) doesn’t seal the canals tightly, bacteria re-enter.
  • Microleakage can also happen if the temporary filling leaks or breaks.

4. No placement of Crown after RCT

  • The tooth becomes brittle and more likely to crack or break under pressure.
  • Without a crown, chewing stress causes microfractures or full breaks.

5. Delay in placing of the Crown

  • Even a few weeks of delay can allow reinfection.
  • Post-RCT teeth must be crowned within 2–3 weeks for long-term success.

6. Re-infection from poor oral hygiene

  • Cavities or gum issues near the RCT tooth can compromise its success.
  • Solution: Regular brushing, flossing, and 6-monthly dental checkups.

7. Inexperienced Dentist or Used poor technique

  • Overfilling, underfilling, ledging, or perforations can lead to failure.
  • To clarify, choosing a trained and experienced Endodontist significantly reduces this risk.

Get the Best Value, Not just the Cheapest Cost of Root Canal Treatment.

Prioritize quality over price
An RCT is a one-time investment. Don’t compromise on hygiene, materials, or skill.

Choose the right dentist
Look for an experienced endodontist or a clinic that provides long-term care and transparency.

Ask about inclusions
Does the cost include X-rays? Consultation? Crown? Post-op care?

Check reviews & referrals
Online reviews (Google, Practo), personal referrals, and photos help assess credibility.

Don’t skip the crown
Not placing a crown to save ₹5,000 can cost you ₹50,000 later when the tooth fractures.

You’re not just paying for a procedure of the Root Canal Treatment. You’re investing in tooth survival.

In 2025, as dental awareness rises and technology advances, the cost of root canal treatment in India reflects the true value of long-term oral health.

It’s not just about removing pain. It’s about saving your natural tooth, preventing future issues, and doing it all with the best materials, sterilization, and skill available.

Cheap RCTs may be tempting, but the real cost shows up later, in failed treatments, reinfections, and avoidable extractions.

Choose wisely, ask the right questions, and remember: in dentistry, like in life, you get what you pay for.

7 reasons for severe pain in the tooth leading to a Root Canal Treatment.

  1. Any of your 4 wisdom teeth might be erupting
  2. You may have hurt yourself and end up having inflammation in the gums
  3. You may have had cavities for a long time, but now it has reached a stage of immediate attention
  4. You may have been experiencing severe sensitivity for a long time.
  5. You may have cracked or chipped your tooth
  6. Your tooth may have worn out because of reasons like drinking too many colas, chewing tobacco, etc. or
  7. You may have undergone a sub-standard tooth treatment earlier.

Though causes for pain could be any, over a period, we have observed that 60-80% of such severe pain leads to a possible Root Canal Treatment in the end.

You may visit any Dentist when in pain.

However, if possible, it’s better to have your tooth checked by a Root Canal Specialist.

What is the life of a root canal treated tooth?

A root canal treated tooth can last 10–20 years or even a lifetimeif done properly and maintained well with a crown and good oral hygiene.

FactorImpact on Lifespan
Quality of the RCTClean, sealed canals = Long-lasting tooth
Dentist’s expertiseSpecialist (Endodontist) RCTs last longer
Crown placementWith crown: protects from fracture (lifespan high)
Post-care hygieneBrushing, flossing, and regular checkups help
Location of toothFront teeth last longer (less bite force), molars need crowns
Timeliness of treatmentDelays = More damage = Shorter lifespan

Why do patients choose The Dentist for a Root Canal Treatment?

1) Single-visit Root Canal Treatments

At The Dentistmost root canal treatments are completed in a single visit, saving patients time, effort, and anxiety.

Unlike traditional practices, where patients often require multiple sittings due to outdated techniques, the doctors at The Dentist utilise advanced rotary endodontics, apex locators, and digital imaging to complete the procedure in one comfortable sitting, provided the case is not unusually complex.

2) Nearly painless Root Canal Treatment experience

We understand that pain is the biggest fear around root canals.

That’s why over 90% of our patients report no pain at all during the procedure, and those who do experience only mild, temporary discomfort.

Our Doctors use modern anesthesia delivery systems, high-precision rotary tools, and microscope-assisted procedures to ensure the entire experience is as painless and stress-free as possible.

3) Long-term treatment assurance

Our goal is not just to treat the infection but to ensure your tooth stays healthy for life.

With accurate cleaning, complete sealing, and proper crown placement, patients treated at The Dentist rarely face any post-treatment issues.

In the rare event of discomfort or complications, our team addresses them promptly and effectively.

The doctors at The Dentist stand by their work, and that assurance gives our patients confidence and peace of mind.

4) Root Canal Treatment with an accuracy of 97.5%

Our root canal procedures are backed by clinical precision and world-class technology:

  • Rotary files designed for exact canal shaping
  • Apex locators that work even in cases with blood or fluid discharge
  • Coaxial illumination and microscope magnification for fine detail visibility
  • Instruments with patented technologies that ensure up to 97.5% procedural accuracy

This level of precision means your root canal is thorough, durable, and worry-free, minimizing any chance of reinfection or failure in the future.

Stories of happy patients at The Dentist.

At The Dentist, we are truly honoured to hear the kind words shared by our patients. Knowing that our care and attention make a real difference in their lives means the world to us.

From routine check-ups, root canal treatments and dental implants to life-changing smile makeovers by invisible aligners, our goal has always been to make every visit comfortable, caring, and memorable.

Our patients often talk about how much they appreciate the kindness of our team, the way we listen to their concerns, and the effort we put into making them feel at ease.

These stories remind us why we do what we do – they inspire us to give our best every day to help our patients feel confident and happy with their smiles.

Here are a few of those stories from Happy Patients at The Dentist. (Read more such stories)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Jasmeet Kaur, (A resident of Kalkaji, New Delhi):

Dr Srishti is very caring and helpful doctor. Mine was the case of broken front tooth where other doctors suggested for tooth removal but I took second opinion from Doctor Srishti, who not only saved my front tooth but also has given a fresh look to my face and life to my tooth through root canal treatment”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Col Rajeev Sahni, (A resident of Defence Colony, New Delhi)

“Got my Root Canal Treatment done. Professionally done, wonderful experience. …I have seen a number of dentists, both in Army and in Civil. I was not very comfortable of visiting any Dentist but her clinic and she were very pleasant and comforting. I found her to be honest and compassionate. She listened to me, and only recommended what I really needed. And, her work was the best. I referred a number of patients to her, and they feel the same way…Would like to commend Dr. Shristi for the Professionalism, care that she takes and highest standards of hygiene maintained at the clinic. Would certainly like to recommend her.” 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Ashok Dewan, (An NRI from Dubai)

“One of the best dental experiences I’ve ever had. Dr. Shrishti and her team handled my case with extreme professionalism, and I was absolutely comfortable undergoing a root canal treatment. The care and diligence taken to overcome my fear factor was phenomenal. From now on any dental procedures, I may require will be done only at Dr. Shristi’s clinic.”

 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Haroon Popal, (An expat from Afganistan)

“I am Haroon I am from Afghanistan. If you really are worried and want the best treatment in whole India then plz do not go anywhere without The Dentist. The best Dentist I have ever seen. I am very happy with my root canal treatment and fillings.”

(Happy Patient Stories – read more)

Why you shouldn’t delay a Root Canal Treatment?

Let’s be honest — most people procrastinate dental treatments.

When the pain subsides with a painkiller or the swelling goes down temporarily, it’s easy to assume the issue is “fixed.”

But when it comes to a root canal, delaying can lead to irreversible damage.

👎 What happens when you delay RCT:

  • The infection spreads deeper into the jawbone
  • The tooth becomes non-restorable (can’t be saved)
  • You may develop pus formation (abscess)
  • Pain returns — often more intensely
  • Tooth extraction becomes the only option
  • You end up needing an implant, bridge, or denture. This costs you much more

Bottom line: What could’ve been fixed with a 3-day RCT and crown, becomes a long, expensive, and invasive affair. Early RCT = Shorter, Simpler, Safer, and Easy to pocket treatment.

Don’t fear a Root Canal Treatment. It’s not what it used to be.

Root Canal has long been one of the most feared dental procedures, largely due to outdated perceptions.

People still associate RCT with pain, long appointments, and uncomfortable tools.

But in 2025, those fears are outdated.

✅ Here’s the reality now:

  • Local anesthesia ensures you’re pain-free throughout
  • Modern clinics use rotary tools for faster, quieter cleaning
  • Microscopes and lasers allow precision with less trauma
  • Most RCTs today are completed in one sitting
  • Post-op discomfort is mild and easily manageable

In fact, most patients say:

“It wasn’t painful at all. I wish I had done it earlier!”

So if fear is holding you back, know that modern RCT is a comfortable, efficient procedure that prevents pain rather than causing it.

Why is Tooth Extraction not the best option?

When faced with a tooth infection, some patients opt for the “easier” solution — simply pulling it out.

No pain, no RCT, no multiple visits — just one shot, and it’s gone.

But here’s the truth: nothing is better than your natural tooth.

😟 What happens after extraction?

  • Missing tooth leads to shifting of adjacent teeth
  • Chewing becomes uneven, stressing other teeth
  • Bone in that area begins to shrink (bone loss)
  • Aesthetics get compromised, especially for front teeth
  • You will need a bridge, implant or denture, all of which cost 3x–5x more

RCT is the only way to preserve your natural tooth, and modern technology makes this possible with minimal discomfort and high success rates.

If it can be saved, save it. Your natural teeth are worth the effort.

Fear the injection? You’re not alone. But you’ll barely feel it.

A major reason people delay RCT is the fear of the first injection.

Many patients, especially those with past dental trauma or general anxiety, dread the sight of the needle.

But here’s some reassuring news:

  • Most dentists today use topical numbing gels before the injection. You barely feel it.
  • Ultra-thin insulin-grade needles are used for local anesthesia
  • The injection itself takes less than 5–10 seconds
  • Modern techniques make sure the area is fully numb before any procedure begins
  • You can even ask for distraction aids, stress balls, or music during the process

And remember, once you’re numb, you’ll feel no pain at all during the RCT.

It’s just a matter of getting past that one moment, after which, it’s all smooth.

Worried about multiple visits? Here’s the good news.

Root Canal Treatment used to take 3–4 sittings a decade ago, but not anymore.

Thanks to advances in tools, imaging, and technique, Single Sitting RCT is now common for most patients.

✅ When can Single Sitting RCT be done?

  • Infections caught early
  • No pus or swelling
  • Straightforward tooth anatomy
  • Good oral hygiene
  • Immediate post-treatment crown planning

In such cases, dentists can complete the entire procedure in 30 to 90 minutes.

Some clinics even offer digital crown impressions the same day, so your crown is ready in 2–3 days max.

🕒 Multi-sitting RCT is now mostly reserved for:

  • Teeth with swelling or abscess
  • Re-treatment cases
  • Complex molar canals
  • Medically compromised patients

Moral of the story? Act early, and you can avoid repeat appointments entirely.

Final Word: Timely RCT Saves Teeth, Time & Cost of Root Canal Treatment.

Delaying or fearing an RCT often leads to larger problems.

The procedure may sound intimidating, but modern dentistry has made it quick, comfortable, and extremely reliable.

When you invest in a good root canal at the right time:

  • You keep your natural tooth
  • You avoid costly implants or bridges
  • You protect your smile, bite, and bone structure
  • And you save yourself from prolonged pain

So if you’re putting off that root canal because of fear, uncertainty, or cost concerns, speak to a trusted dentist.

Ask questions. Get clarity.

But don’t ignore the tooth.

Because in dental care, waiting is the costliest mistake of all.


13 reasons why patients trust The Dentist.

Learn more about The Dentist.

Read our Patient Reviews.


1) Preserve Natural Teeth whenever possible

Nothing functions quite like your own natural teeth. At The Dentist, preserving them is always the first priority, using conservative treatment approaches wherever possible.

2) Conduct Root Canal Treatments with 97.5% accuracy

Using the world’s most advanced technologies and tools, our root canal treatments are performed with exceptional accuracy. With over 3,000 successful procedures, our results speak for themselves.

3) Expert Doctors across key dental fields

Our team includes leading experts with 15–20+ years of experience:

Specialist in Root Canal Treatment – Dr Srishti Jauhar (3000+ successful RCTs).

Expert Implantologist – Dr Anurag Singh is an accomplished Implantologist and Master in Dental Implants (3000+ Dental Implants).

Invisible Aligners Expert – Dr Karan Bhalla (600+ Invisible Aligners)

4) Deep commitment to each patient

We approach each case with dedication and intensity, ensuring that every treatment plan is tailored and executed with utmost care.

5) Use of Advanced Instruments & Premium Materials

An excellent dental treatment needs high-quality instruments & materials. We use only top-tier dental tools and materials to deliver precise, durable, and aesthetically superior results in every treatment.

6) Follow 4-Tier Sterilisation Protocol

Patient safety is paramount. Our strict 4-level sterilization process ensures all instruments used are impeccably hygienic for every procedure.

7) Lifetime Treatment Assurance

Every procedure is executed with precision and attention to detail. Our commitment extends beyond treatment, offering patients a lifetime assurance of quality.

8) Zero Waiting Time with prior appointments

With a one-patient-at-a-time approach, appointments are honoured punctually, respecting both the doctor’s and the patient’s time.

9) Patient Education throughout the journey

We proactively educate patients about their oral health, empowering them to prevent future issues and reduce the need for extensive treatments.

10) Partnership with India’s leading Dental Labs

To ensure superior results, we work exclusively with the country’s top dental labs, producing high-quality restorations that last.

11) Transparent & Ethical Dental Practices

We firmly believe in ethical dental treatment and 100% transparency. All aspects, such as treatment options, timelines, and costs, are openly discussed, reinforcing trust at every step.

12) Trusted by Patients globally

Our reputation extends across borders. Patients from the US, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia regularly visit The Dentist for expert dental care.

13) Dedicated Post-Treatment follow-ups

We maintain long-term relationships with our patients, personally reminding them about follow-ups and check-ups to ensure continued oral health.


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