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Root Canal Medisave

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Medisave

Concerned about how much a root canal might cost? 

You might be able to use MediSave to help cover it.

Root canal treatment removes infected pulp and helps relieve pain. It allows you to keep your natural tooth and usually doesn’t require major surgery.

If you're a Singaporean or PR contributing to CPF (Central Provident Fund), you’re already building up MediSave funds that can go toward approved dental procedures. Certain surgical root canal treatments may be eligible for subsidy under MediSave.

Read on to learn when and how MediSave may be used for root canal treatment.

Can I Use MediSave for Root Canal Treatment?

Not usually. Most non-surgical root canal treatments done during routine dental visits are not claimable. 

Eligibility for MediSave

MediSave helps Singaporeans and PRs pay for approved surgical treatments, including certain dental surgeries. To qualify for a MediSave claim, the procedure must:

  • Be surgical in nature
  • Be done at a MediSave-accredited clinic or a public hospital
  • Be listed as a claimable treatment by MOH

Eligibility may be determined by age and personal circumstances. In some cases, older patients may be eligible for different MediSave withdrawal limits or schemes. Check with your clinic to confirm what applies to your situation.

Additionally, you or a family member must have sufficient balance in your MediSave account.

What are the Claimable Root Canal-related Procedures?

  • Surgical root canal treatments (such as apicoectomy or peri-radicular surgery)
  • Removal of root tips or infected tissue through surgery
  • Management of complications affecting the jawbone or nearby connective tissues

These are generally considered day surgeries, carried out in clinics or hospitals without requiring an overnight stay.

How to Claim MediSave for Root Canal Treatment

MediSave can be used for certain types of root canal treatments — mainly surgical ones — if done at an accredited clinic. Your dentist will help assess your eligibility.

  1. Before your appointment, ensure your dental clinic and dentist are MediSave-registered. Only MediSave-registered clinics can help you apply your CPF savings for eligible treatments.
  2. Your dentist will assess your condition to determine if your root canal is eligible for a MediSave claim.
  3. If your case qualifies, the clinic should provide a breakdown of the expected costs. Find out which part of the procedure is claimable.
  4. Before treatment, you need to sign an authorisation form. This gives the clinic permission to file your MediSave claim.
  5. If your claim is approved, MediSave will pay part of the cost. You will need to pay the balance yourself.

How Nuffield Dental Can Help With Root Canal Medisave Claim

  • If you worry about dental treatment costs, our clinic can guide you through the MediSave claim process, based on MOH guidelines. MediSave can be used for approved procedures like wisdom tooth removal or dental implants. For root canal treatments, claims may be possible if the procedure is surgical in nature and meets MOH’s requirements.
  • Nuffield Dental is MOH-accredited, which means the clinic follows MOH’s safety and practice standards. This helps ensure treatments are in line with national healthcare standards.
  • Nuffield Dental has several branches located in different parts of Singapore for your convenience.
  • If you are unsure about MediSave claims or your treatment options, staff at Nuffield Dental can guide you. The clinic staff can explain how to complete the necessary documents for eligible MediSave claims.

Cost of Root Canal Treatment in Singapore

  • Anterior (Front) Tooth: Expect to pay between SGD $545 and $654 for a front tooth root canal. These teeth usually have one root, which may affect the overall cost.
  • Premolar Tooth: For a premolar, the fee is typically SGD $763 to $872. Premolars may have one or two canals. These may require more time, depending on the number of canals.
  • Molar Tooth: Molars may cost more (from SGD $981 to $1,090), due to having more canals and complex cleaning needs.
  • Root Canal Procedure: The main treatment usually costs SGD $545 to $1,090, depending on which tooth needs care.
  • Dental Crown: After your root canal, a dental crown to protect your tooth costs between SGD $872 and $1,308. Crowns are not always needed, but they support your natural tooth.
  • Initial Consultation: An initial assessment costs about SGD $54 to $109. This includes an examination and X-rays.
  • Additional Costs: You might also need to budget for X-rays (SGD $54 to $109), medication (SGD $27 to $54), and follow-up visits (SGD $54 to $109).
  • Emergency Treatment: Emergency dental care typically ranges from SGD $1,090 to $1,635. This may include after-hours treatment or care for urgent dental conditions

If you’re unsure about the final cost, your dentist can provide a detailed breakdown during your consultation. Contact us for an appointment today. 

FAQs

What if my MediSave balance is not enough?

If your MediSave balance is not enough, you cannot fully cover the cost of a root canal using MediSave. You will need to pay the remaining amount yourself or consider other payment options like private insurance or personal funds.

Can I use my family member’s MediSave for root canal?

Yes, you can use a family member’s MediSave for a root canal if it is a surgical procedure done at an accredited clinic and meets MediSave’s claim criteria.

Does insurance cover root canal treatment?

Many dental insurance plans offer partial reimbursement for root canal treatments if the procedure is medically necessary. Coverage varies depending on your insurance package, so check with your provider to confirm what is included and any possible claim limits.

What if I can’t afford a root canal?

  • Talk to your dentist – Ask about payment plans or alternative treatment options.
  • Check your insurance – Some private insurance policies may cover part of the cost.
  • Visit polyclinics or public institutions – Visit polyclinics or public institutions. These may offer lower-cost services and subsidies for Singaporeans
  • Dental schools – Dentists-in-training may charge lower fees.
  • MediFund – You may be eligible if you’re financially strapped and receiving treatment at a public hospital.
  • Other options – While tooth extractions may cost less, it’s important to discuss long-term pros and cons with your dentist.

How many days MC for root canal?

Most people need 1–2 days of medical leave after a root canal. If there are complications or follow-ups are needed, this duration may be prolonged. Follow your dentist’s aftercare advice closely for a quicker recovery.

Do I need to have a root canal treatment before I do a crown?

No, not always. A root canal is only necessary if the tooth’s nerve is infected or damaged. Your dentist will assess your tooth and advise whether a root canal is required before placing a crown.

Why choose root canal treatment over extraction?

In some cases, root canal treatment may be a more cost-effective option compared to tooth extraction followed by implant or bridge. Your dentist will explain the benefits and considerations of each.

Medical References

Central Provident Fund Board (CPFB) | Using MediSave for outpatient treatments (n.d.). https://www.cpf.gov.sg/member/healthcare-financing/using-your-medisave-savings/using-medisave-for-outpatient-treatments

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