Crowns and Bridges
A crown caps a weakened or root-treated tooth to restore its shape and strength; a bridge replaces a missing tooth by anchoring onto the teeth beside the gap. Both typically take two visits.
Pricing
By general dentist: front tooth S$500 to S$700; premolar S$700 to S$900; molar S$1,000 to S$1,300
By specialist (endodontist): front tooth S$700 to S$1,100; premolar S$1,000 to S$1,400; molar S$1,300 to S$1,800
Fees include the X-rays taken during and after treatment, and exclude diagnostic X-rays taken beforehand, the post, core, final crown and medication. Within each band, the fee depends on the tooth, the number of canals, and how complex those canals are to treat.
Patients aged 60 and above can also use Flexi-MediSave (up to S$400/year) towards root canal treatment at CHAS dental clinics from mid-2026.
Full fee schedule
Root canal treatment
| Treatment | General dentist | Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Root Canal Treatment - Anterior Tooth | S$500 – S$700 | S$700 – S$1,100 |
| Root Canal Treatment - Premolar | S$700 – S$900 | S$1,000 – S$1,400 |
| Root Canal Treatment - Molar | S$1,000 – S$1,300 | S$1,300 – S$1,800 |
Apical surgery
| Treatment | General dentist | Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Apical Surgery - Anterior | — | S$1,700 – S$1,900 |
| Apical Surgery - Premolar | — | S$2,000 – S$2,300 |
| Apical Surgery - Molar | — | S$2,400 – S$2,600 |
Fixed prostheses
| Treatment | General dentist | Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed prosthesis - full metal or porcelain fused to metal (per unit) | S$1,000 – S$1,400 | S$1,150 – S$1,350 |
| Fixed prosthesis - full porcelain or zirconia (per unit) | S$1,100 – S$1,500 | S$1,350 – S$1,750 |
Post and core
| Treatment | Typical fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Post | S$250 | |
| Core | S$200 – S$250 |
CHAS subsidies
| Treatment | Orange | Blue | Merdeka Generation | Pioneer Generation | Claim limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Root canal (anterior tooth) | S$217.50 | S$326 | S$331 | S$336 | 2 per year, shared across all root canals |
| Root canal (premolar) | S$308.50 | S$462.50 | S$467.50 | S$472.50 | 2 per year, shared across all root canals |
| Root canal (molar) | S$389.50 | S$584.50 | S$589.50 | S$594.50 | 2 per year, shared across all root canals |
Subsidy per claim under the official CHAS schedule effective 1 October 2025.
Prices are indicative and based on normal case complexity. A consultation is required for a definitive quote.
Why the tooth matters
In the fee schedule above, RCT means root canal treatment and anterior means a front tooth. Front teeth (incisors and canines) usually have a single root canal. Premolars have one or two, and molars typically have three or four — often narrow, curved and harder to reach at the back of the mouth. Every canal must be located, cleaned, shaped and filled, so chair time — and the fee — climbs from front tooth to molar.
Who treats the tooth also sets the fee. An endodontist is a dentist with postgraduate specialty training in root canal treatment, and endodontist fees sit above general-dentist fees for the same tooth. Straightforward cases are commonly handled by a general dentist; teeth with curved or calcified canals, unusual anatomy or persistent infection are often referred. Retreatment — redoing a root canal that was done before — carries a fee above the equivalent initial treatment, because the existing root filling must be removed before the canals can be cleaned and sealed again.
The full cost of saving a tooth
The fee-schedule figures cover the root canal itself, including the radiographs taken during and after treatment. A root-treated tooth then usually needs to be rebuilt: a post (S$250 where one is needed to anchor the filling material), a core (S$200 to S$250) and a crown — S$1,000 to S$1,500 by a general dentist depending on material, or S$1,150 to S$1,750 by a specialist. In the fee schedule the crown appears as a fixed prosthesis — the per-unit fee shared with bridges, inlays, onlays and veneers — and "Same fee" marks rows where the specialist charges the same as a general dentist.
A worked example: a molar treated by a general dentist runs S$1,000 to S$1,300 for the root canal, plus S$250 for a post, S$200 to S$250 for a core and S$1,000 to S$1,500 for the crown — roughly S$2,450 to S$3,300 in total. A front tooth on the same arithmetic works out at roughly S$1,950 to S$2,700 and front teeth can sometimes be restored with a filling instead of a crown, which lowers the total further.
If you come in for a suspected cracked tooth, the cracked tooth assessment (S$400 to S$550) is waived if you proceed to root canal treatment.
How the subsidy is applied
Bring your CHAS, Merdeka Generation or Pioneer Generation card and the subsidy is deducted at the counter, so you pay the balance on the day — there is nothing to claim back afterwards. See our CHAS guide for how the tiers work and what else is claimable.
Flexi-MediSave from mid-2026
From mid-2026, Flexi-MediSave extends to root canal treatment received at CHAS dental clinics. If you are aged 60 or above, you can put up to S$400 per year from your MediSave account towards the bill, in addition to any CHAS subsidy. For a subsidised front-tooth root canal, that combination can bring the cash portion down to a modest amount. See our MediSave guide for eligibility and how claims are made.
Apical surgery — when a root canal is not enough
Occasionally, infection persists at the root tip even after a well-executed root canal or retreatment. Apical surgery (apicoectomy) addresses this: an endodontist accesses the root tip through the gum, removes the infected tissue and seals the root end. Fees are S$1,700 to S$1,900 for a front tooth, S$2,000 to S$2,300 for a premolar and S$2,400 to S$2,600 for a molar. It is performed by an endodontist, so no general-dentist fee applies.
Unlike standard root canal treatment, apical surgery is a surgical procedure and is MediSave-claimable — S$1,250 for a front tooth, S$1,250 to S$1,550 for a premolar and S$1,550 for a molar — which reduces the cash outlay considerably.
Root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed pulp from inside a tooth, then cleans, shapes and seals the root canals so the natural tooth can be kept. It is the alternative to removing the tooth. Treatment usually takes one to three visits, and a crown is often fitted afterwards.
When root canal treatment is needed
The pulp is the soft tissue inside a tooth that contains its nerve and blood supply. When decay, a crack or an injury lets bacteria reach it, the pulp becomes inflamed or infected.
Signs that this has happened include:
- sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed
- pain when biting on the tooth
- an abscess, or swelling around the tooth
Left untreated, the infection can spread into the bone around the root. Root canal treatment deals with the infection while keeping the tooth in place.
What the treatment involves
The tooth is numbed, and an opening is made to reach the pulp chamber. The infected pulp is removed, and each canal inside the root is cleaned and shaped along its full length. The canals are then filled and sealed, and the opening is restored.
Treatment usually takes one to three visits depending on the tooth and how many canals it has — front teeth have fewer canals than molars — with each visit commonly around an hour.
Related root canal procedures
Endodontic retreatment is for a tooth that has had a root canal before and has become infected again. The old root filling is taken out, the canals are cleaned and disinfected again, and the tooth is re-sealed.
Vital pulpotomy removes the affected part of the pulp where decay has reached it, leaving the healthy pulp below intact. It is used where the rest of the pulp can still be kept alive.
Revascularisation applies to a young permanent tooth whose root has not finished forming when deep decay or an injury damages the pulp. It aims to let the root complete its development.
Restorability assessment comes first where a tooth is cracked or heavily broken down. Tests and X-rays establish whether the tooth can be restored at all, before root canal treatment is started.
Why a crown is often recommended afterwards
A tooth that has had root canal treatment can become brittle over time, because the treatment removes tissue from inside it. A crown caps the tooth and protects it from fracturing under normal chewing.
Your dentist advises whether a crown is needed for your particular tooth and when to have it fitted.
Root canal or extraction and implant?
When a tooth is badly broken down, the alternative to root canal treatment is extraction followed by a replacement — usually a dental implant. On cost alone: a root canal and crown at a general dentist totals roughly S$1,500 to S$3,100 (add S$450 to S$500 where a post and core are needed), while a dental implant starts from S$2,600 for the implant itself, with the extraction billed separately. Our dental implant price guide itemises those fees.
Cost is not the whole picture. Whether a tooth is worth saving depends on how much sound tooth structure remains, the condition of the root and the surrounding bone, and how the tooth fits into your bite. Both routes have good long-term track records in the right situations — your dentist will assess the tooth and talk through both options with you before anything is decided.
Cost and CHAS
Root canal treatment is CHAS-accredited, so cardholders can claim a subsidy where eligible. For current fees by tooth type and how the crown is priced separately, see the root canal cost guide.
Seeing a root canal dentist or specialist
Root canal treatment is offered across our Singapore clinics by general dentists, and complex cases can be seen by a specialist in endodontics — the field concerned with the inside of the tooth and its root canals. Book online, call, or ask on WhatsApp.
Who it's for
People with a tooth whose nerve is infected or inflamed — often felt as lingering sensitivity, pain on biting, or an abscess — where the tooth is otherwise worth keeping. It is the alternative to removing the tooth; a badly broken-down tooth is assessed first to confirm it can be saved.
Time and visits
Usually one to three visits depending on the tooth and the number of canals, each commonly around an hour. A crown is often fitted afterwards to protect the treated tooth.
Recovery and aftercare
The tooth may feel tender for a few days, especially when biting, and settles with simple pain relief. You can usually eat normally once any numbness wears off; chewing on the other side until a crown is placed helps protect the tooth.
Risks and considerations
Many treated teeth last for years, but occasionally an infection persists or returns and the tooth needs re-treatment or, rarely, removal. A treated tooth can become more brittle over time, which is why a crown is often recommended afterwards.
FAQ
Root Canal Treatment: frequently asked questions
Are there alternatives to root canal treatment?
The alternative to root canal treatment is extracting the tooth. However, it is generally recommended to save the natural tooth whenever possible as it helps maintain proper biting and chewing function, prevents shifting of adjacent teeth, and preserves the jawbone structure.
Why is root canal treatment necessary?
Root canal treatment is necessary when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or trauma. It is performed to save the tooth from extraction and to relieve pain and discomfort caused by the infection.
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment, and what does it cost?
Root-treated back teeth are prone to fracture under chewing forces, so a crown is usually advised for molars and premolars. Front teeth can sometimes be restored with a filling instead. A crown costs S$1,000 to S$1,500 with a general dentist or S$1,150 to S$1,750 with a specialist, depending on material, plus a post (S$250) and core (S$200 to S$250) where the tooth needs rebuilding.
Why is an endodontist’s fee higher than a general dentist’s?
An endodontist is a dentist with postgraduate specialty training in root canal treatment, and typically takes on the harder cases — retreatments, curved or calcified canals, and persistent infections. That training and case mix is reflected in the fee: for example, a molar root canal is S$1,000 to S$1,300 with a general dentist and S$1,300 to S$1,800 with an endodontist.
A temporary filling was placed on my tooth after the root canal treatment. Is there anything that I should be aware of?
It is not unusual for a thin layer of temporary filling to wear off in-between appointments. However, if the entire filling wears off or dislodges, please contact our clinic so we can arrange to have it replaced.
Show 20 more questions
What is a root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that involves removing infected or damaged pulp from the inside of a tooth. The pulp is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed to prevent further infection and save the tooth.
Is root canal treatment painful?
Pain is caused when the nerves in your tooth are damaged by bacteria or trauma. Removing the nerve essentially removes the feelings of pain you are having. During the first stage of a root canal, local anaesthesia will be applied to the surrounding area so that the pulp containing the nerves in your tooth can be removed painlessly. Once the nerve is gone and the canal is cleaned out, the rest of the treatment itself is painless.
What happens after a root canal treatment?
After a root canal treatment, the tooth may require a dental crown or filling to restore its strength and protect it from further damage. Your dentist will discuss the appropriate restoration options for your specific case.
What are the steps involved in a root canal treatment?
The treatment has two stages: 1) Cleaning and disinfecting the canal and 2) Filling the canal to prevent bacterial regrowth. These stages can be performed in one or more sessions, depending on the tooth's condition. After treatment, the tooth is restored with a filling or crown.
How much does CHAS cover for a root canal?
It depends on your card and the tooth. Per root canal treatment: a front tooth attracts S$217.50 (Orange) to S$336 (Pioneer Generation); a premolar S$308.50 to S$472.50; a molar S$389.50 to S$594.50. You can claim for up to two root canal treatments per calendar year, and the subsidy is deducted from your bill at the counter.
Is the assessment fee charged if I go ahead with treatment?
The cracked tooth assessment is S$400 to S$550 and it is waived if you proceed to root canal treatment with us. Pre-operative or diagnostic X-rays are billed separately, while the radiographs taken during and after the root canal are included in the treatment fee.
What does root canal treatment cost in total, including the crown?
Budget for the root canal (S$500 to S$1,800 depending on the tooth and clinician), a post and core where needed (S$450 to S$500 together), and a crown (S$1,000 to S$1,750 depending on material and clinician). A molar treated and crowned by a general dentist typically totals S$2,450 to S$3,300; a front tooth roughly S$1,950 to S$2,700.
Can I drive myself home after a root canal treatment?
Yes, in most cases, you can drive yourself home after a root canal treatment. The local anesthesia used during the procedure wears off relatively quickly, allowing you to resume your daily activities. However, if you receive sedation or if you feel uncomfortable driving, it's best to arrange for someone to drive you home.
My tooth and the area surrounding it feel tender to touch. Is this normal after my root canal treatment?
Your tooth and surrounding gum tissue may be tender or sore for a few days, especially if there was pain or infection before the procedure. You may also feel some tenderness in your jaw from keeping it open for an extended period of time during the treatment.
Can I use MediSave to pay for a root canal?
Not for a standard root canal — it is a non-surgical procedure, so ordinary MediSave does not apply. Two exceptions: apical surgery, a surgical follow-up procedure, is MediSave-claimable at S$1,250 to S$1,550 depending on the tooth; and from mid-2026, patients aged 60 and above can use Flexi-MediSave (up to S$400 per year) for root canal treatment at CHAS dental clinics. See our MediSave guide.
Can a tooth that has had a root canal treatment get reinfected?
In rare cases, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can get reinfected. This may occur if the tooth was not properly sealed, there was a fracture in the tooth, or new decay developed. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are crucial for monitoring and preventing reinfection.
How successful is root canal treatment?
Root canal treatment has a high success rate, with most treated teeth lasting a lifetime. However, success depends on various factors, including the extent of the infection, the tooth's condition, and proper restoration and maintenance after the treatment.
Will I get a medical certificate (MC) for root canal treatment?
If you would like to request for an MC, kindly raise your concern to your treating dentist and he/she will assess your condition to see if you require medical leave.
How can I pay?
Advanced Dental accepts CHAS for root canal treatment, alongside cash, NETS, PayNow and major credit cards. MediSave applies where the procedure qualifies — apical surgery today, and Flexi-MediSave for patients aged 60 and above from mid-2026. CHAS subsidies are deducted at the counter, so you pay the balance on the day.
Is root canal treatment expensive?
The cost of root canal treatment varies depending on factors such as the tooth's location, complexity of the case, and the need for additional procedures. While root canal treatment may require a significant investment, it is often more cost-effective than tooth extraction followed by tooth replacement options like dental implants or bridges.
For a root canal treatment, should I see a general dentist or a specialist?
Simple root canal cases can be performed by our general dentists. Complex cases, such as molars with many canals or re-treatment of failed root canals, will be referred to our in-house specialists.
Can a cracked tooth cause sensitivity?
Yes, a cracked tooth can lead to tooth sensitivity, especially when biting or chewing. Cracked teeth should be evaluated by a dentist and may require treatment, such as bonding, a dental crown, or root canal therapy.
How long does root canal treatment take?
Depending on the severity of the tooth, the duration of each appointment varies between 30 and 90 minutes.
Why is retreatment priced above an initial root canal?
Retreatment means redoing a root canal that was done before. The existing root filling — and sometimes a post — must be removed before the canals can be cleaned, disinfected and sealed again, which takes added chair time. Retreatment runs S$900 to S$1,600 with a general dentist and S$1,100 to S$2,000 with an endodontist, depending on the tooth.
Is there anything I should avoid eating or doing after my root canal treatment?
Do not eat or drink anything for the first half an hour after your treatment. The temporary filling in your tooth takes about half an hour to harden. Also, avoid chewing on the affected site until your tooth has been restored with a permanent restoration, as the tooth is still fragile and unprotected. Switching to a softer diet may be necessary but otherwise, you may eat what is comfortable on the opposite side.
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