A root canal is not always dental work that can wait. When you are in need of a root canal rather than a cavity filling, the issue has gone deep into the roots of the tooth. You will need to have the tooth cleaned out, and you will need a crown put in its place. Though the treatment can be considered common for dentists to do, it can be a major treatment for the patient. It is also often at a high cost for the patient. If you are in need of a root canal but you are low on cash, there are some ways to make sure you get the treatment you need to keep your mouth in order. 

Try at a dental clinic first

Some dental clinics will have sliding health scales or days where they perform work for those who are lower income. If you have a low income or if you need a sliding scale due to the high cost, you should ask your dental clinic for these programs. Bring along your W-2 or your paycheck stub and employment information in the event that you have to qualify for these programs. Book the soonest appointment available so that your tooth does not fall into further decay while waiting for your appointment date. 

Get the crown later

One of the reasons why root canals are so expensive is because a crown has to be put on top of the tooth. The crown must go over the tooth after a root canal since extensive drilling is often required. If you do not have the money for the crown, ask your dentist if it would be OK to have a temporary filling placed over the tooth. This will be a larger filling than usual, but it will close the holes to the work in your mouth so that your tooth roots remain repaired. Come back within a few months and have the crown put on after you have saved up money. 

Take over-the-counter pain pills

Often, your dentist will prescribe pain pills and an antibiotic. The antibiotic is mandatory to make sure that you do not get an infection after the root canal. Over-the-counter pain pills that you have at home can work just as well. Ask your doctor which pain medication ingredients you can take safely after the surgery. Find these in your own medicine cabinet in order to stop the pain and to be able to rest well after the procedure.