Fillings, crowns, root canals and extractions

Restorative dentistry: what each procedure involves, how long it takes and what it costs.

Fillings

We use tooth-colored composite fillings only. Most fillings take 30 to 45 minutes. You will be numb for two to three hours afterward. Fee without insurance: $175 to $320 depending on size.

Crowns

A crown covers a tooth that is cracked, heavily filled, or has had a root canal. We make most crowns in-house with CEREC in a single two-hour visit, so there is no temporary and no second appointment. Some front teeth are sent to a lab for a better cosmetic match and take two visits about two weeks apart. Fee without insurance: $1,150 to $1,400. Insurance typically covers 50 percent after the deductible.

Root canals

A root canal removes infected nerve tissue from inside a tooth so the tooth can be saved. With modern anesthetic it feels like a long filling. Front teeth take about 60 minutes; molars 90 minutes. Most root-canaled teeth need a crown afterward. Fee without insurance: $850 (front tooth) to $1,250 (molar), plus the crown. Complex molars are referred to an endodontist.

Extractions

Simple extractions take 20 to 40 minutes. Fee: $195 to $310. Surgical extractions and most wisdom teeth are referred to an oral surgeon. Plan on soft food for two days and no smoking or drinking through a straw for 72 hours.

Bridges and dentures

Three-unit bridge: $3,200 to $3,900. Full upper or lower denture: $1,600 to $2,100. Partial denture: $1,300 to $1,800.

Will it hurt?

Every procedure above is done with local anesthetic. You should feel pressure but not pain. If you feel pain, raise your hand and we stop and add more anesthetic. Nitrous oxide is available for $65 per visit.