Is root canal considered basic or major?

Root canals are generally considered a basic rather than a major dental procedure, and in the case of wisdom teeth, whether the tooth is impacted or not will determine the level of the procedure. The level of restorative dentistry depends on a variety of factors, but mainly on the severity of tooth decay. For example, if you have a cavity, a basic restorative dental repair, such as a filling, should be helpful. Or, if the root of the tooth is endangered, endodontics may be required.

Your Lakewood dentist will determine which treatment is best for your situation. Basic care includes dental problems, such as extractions or fillings. Root canals may or may not be included in this level of coverage. The insured will have a co-pay or coinsurance.

In some cases, such as with a DHMO, it can be a specific dollar amount. Basic services include coverage for diagnostic and preventive treatments, such as dental exams, x-rays, cleanings, topical application of fluoride, oral hygiene, fillings, tooth scraping, tooth extractions, periodontal services to treat the bone and gums around the tooth, and endodontic services including endodontic therapy. Major restoration services include coverage for dentures, crowns, inlays, inlays and bridges. Orthodontic services include coverage for procedures and appliances, such as braces, wires, space maintainers, and other mechanical aids needed to straighten teeth and correct other defects.

Dental services are generally divided into several levels of coverage. At each level, a variety of plan design features are available, such as coinsurance, deductibles and maximums. Generally, the percentage of reimbursement for basic services is higher than the percentage of reimbursement for major restorative and orthodontic services.