Top 10 Dental Clinics in Hanoi for Root Canal Treatment (2026 Guide for Australian, NZ & US Patients)
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- Top 10 Dental Clinics in Hanoi for Root Canal Treatment (2026 Guide for Australian, NZ & US Patients)
Last updated: February 2026 | Reading time: 14 minutes
Root canal treatment is one of the most economically compelling procedures in dental tourism, precisely because the savings are so large and the procedure is so technically equivalent between a quality Hanoi clinic and a quality Australian clinic. The rotary nickel-titanium files used to shape your canals are the same brands. The gutta-percha used to fill and seal them is the same material. The apex locator used to measure canal length electronically is the same technology. The clinical protocol — access opening, canal location, shaping, irrigation, obturation, temporary filling — is identical.
What differs between a USD $150 root canal and a USD $1,500 root canal in Australia is not outcome quality at equivalent clinics. It is overhead: rent, wages, insurance, regulatory compliance costs. The underlying dentistry, performed well, is the same.
This matters because root canal treatment is often an emergency-driven decision. Patients arrive in Hanoi with a throbbing molar, an abscess that has been building for weeks, or a tooth that their home dentist quoted AUD $1,800–$2,500 to treat and another AUD $2,000 for the crown that follows. For that patient, Hanoi represents not just savings but access — the ability to afford saving a tooth rather than extracting it, avoiding years of bone loss and a more expensive implant replacement down the road.
The total cost of root canal plus crown at a quality Hanoi clinic — including the zirconia or e.max crown placed to protect the treated tooth — typically runs USD $400–$700 for a molar. The same sequence of treatment in Australia or the US costs AUD $3,000–$4,500. The net saving, even after flights and accommodation, is substantial.
One honest caveat: root canal treatment does require some staying power. Simple cases on front teeth complete in a single appointment. Molars with three or four canals, curved or calcified anatomy, or active infection requiring inter-appointment medication may require two visits spaced 3–7 days apart. For patients visiting Hanoi for a fixed period, planning a minimum 4–5 day stay for any molar root canal provides adequate flexibility.
Root canal is not a commodity procedure. The difference between a well-executed root canal that lasts a lifetime and a poorly executed one requiring retreatment or extraction within five years comes down almost entirely to the technology and technique applied during treatment. This is what to look for — and why it matters clinically.
Rotary nickel-titanium (NiTi) file systems. Traditional root canal treatment used stainless steel hand files, which were slow, imprecise, and more likely to fracture inside a curved canal. Modern rotary NiTi systems — ProTaper Gold, Reciproc, WaveOne Gold, and VDW systems — use mechanised engine-driven files made from a memory-retaining nickel-titanium alloy that flexes to follow the natural curve of the canal rather than trying to force it straight. These systems clean canals faster, more thoroughly, and with dramatically lower file fracture risk. At good Hanoi clinics, single-use NiTi files are the standard — used once per patient and discarded. At budget clinics, files may be reused (a hygiene and fracture risk concern) or older stainless steel systems may still be in use.
Electronic apex locators. Accurately measuring the working length of each root canal — how deep the instrument must reach to clean and fill properly — is critical to outcome. Too short means infected tissue remains. Too long risks perforation of the root tip, which can cause chronic infection and potentially tooth loss. Electronic apex locators measure canal length via electrical resistance, providing real-time, millimetre-accurate working length verification that traditional X-ray-only measurement cannot match. Every quality Hanoi endodontic clinic uses apex locators as standard.
Dental operating microscopes. The operating microscope — typically providing 8–16x magnification under bright illumination — transforms what is clinically possible in root canal treatment. The most common cause of root canal failure is a missed canal: the MB2 canal (second mesiobuccal canal) in upper molars is present in over 90% of patients but invisible to the naked eye and easily missed without magnification. Microscopes also allow detection of cracked roots, calcified canal openings, and instrument fractures that could otherwise go undiagnosed. Not all Hanoi clinics have microscopes. Those that do — and use them routinely rather than reserving them for “difficult cases” — deliver demonstrably better outcomes, particularly for molars and retreatment cases.
Rubber dam isolation. A rubber dam is a thin sheet of latex or nitrile stretched around the tooth being treated, isolating it from the rest of the oral environment. Without rubber dam, saliva and oral bacteria can contaminate the sterile canal system during treatment, dramatically increasing the risk of reinfection. Rubber dam is not optional in quality endodontics — it is a mandatory standard in every credentialled endodontic protocol worldwide. Budget clinics sometimes skip it because placement adds time and patient cooperation. Any clinic that tells a patient rubber dam is “unnecessary” should be avoided for root canal treatment.
Ultrasonic irrigation activation. After the canals are shaped with rotary files, the irrigation step — flushing the canals with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) to dissolve remaining tissue and eliminate bacteria — is where the real disinfection happens. Passive irrigation using a syringe is less effective than ultrasonic activation, which uses vibration to drive the irrigant into lateral canals, ramifications, and areas unreachable by instruments. Ultrasonic irrigation, combined with EDTA to remove the smear layer, dramatically improves canal cleanliness and reduces the bacterial load before obturation. Top Hanoi clinics use both.
Warm gutta-percha obturation systems. The final filling of the cleaned canal with gutta-percha (a biocompatible rubber material) can be done in two ways: cold lateral condensation — the older, simpler method — or thermoplasticized warm vertical condensation, which flows into irregular canal anatomy, lateral canals, and the entire three-dimensional root canal system. Warm obturation techniques, using systems like System B or Obtura, create a denser, more complete seal that is significantly more resistant to reinfection over the long term. Clinics using warm obturation are investing in long-term outcomes rather than procedure throughput.
CBCT imaging for complex cases. For standard root canals with straightforward anatomy, periapical X-rays are sufficient for diagnosis and treatment verification. For complex cases — calcified canals, curved roots, suspected extra canals, retreatments, or cases where the apex is unclear on 2D imaging — Cone Beam CT provides a 3D view of root anatomy, bone condition, and canal configuration that dramatically improves treatment planning and outcome predictability. Clinics with in-house CBCT can handle the full complexity spectrum; those without must refer complex cases or proceed with less information.
Root canal pricing varies by tooth type because clinical complexity varies — not for arbitrary reasons. Front teeth (incisors and canines) typically have a single, relatively straight canal that is accessible and straightforward to clean and seal. Premolars have one or two canals of moderate difficulty. Lower molars typically have two or three canals in curved roots; upper molars typically have three to four canals including the frequently missed MB2, and their anatomy is among the most complex in the mouth. Wisdom teeth requiring root canal treatment — relatively rare, since extraction is often more practical — are the most technically demanding.
At quality Hanoi clinics, expect pricing broadly in the following tiers: front teeth and canines USD $150–$250, premolars USD $200–$300, lower molars USD $280–$380, upper molars USD $320–$450, and retreatment of a previously treated tooth USD $400–$600. Budget clinics will price below these ranges; premium or specialist endodontist clinics will price toward or above the upper end.
The crown that should follow a root canal on any molar or premolar is a separate cost, typically USD $150–$430 for zirconia at quality Hanoi clinics. This is important to factor into trip budgeting, because proceeding without a crown after a root canal leaves the now-brittle, devitalized tooth vulnerable to fracture — which would require extraction and implant placement at far greater cost.
Best for: Advanced endodontic technology, single-visit completion, verified international patient volume, all complexity levels
Picasso Dental Clinic has performed root canal treatment for patients from over 62 nationalities since 2013, across four Vietnam locations, and publishes among the most detailed endodontic clinical information of any Hanoi clinic — which itself signals the level of technical investment the team has made in this procedure.
The clinic’s endodontic protocol is built around four non-negotiable standards that distinguish quality outcomes: rubber dam isolation on every case (no exceptions, as contamination prevention is foundational to long-term success), rotary nickel-titanium instrumentation rather than hand files, electronic apex locator measurement for precise working length verification, and ultrasonic irrigation activation to drive sodium hypochlorite into the full canal anatomy. These are not premium add-ons at Picasso — they are clinical standards applied to every case.
Operating microscopes are available for complex cases including retreatments, calcified canals, and suspected missed canals. The MB2 canal in upper first molars — present in over 90% of patients but frequently missed by clinics without magnification — is systematically located at Picasso as a result. Warm gutta-percha obturation using thermoplasticized technique creates a three-dimensional canal seal, with final X-rays taken to verify complete obturation before the patient leaves the chair.
Most root canals at Picasso complete in a single visit of 60–120 minutes. Cases requiring inter-appointment medication (severe pre-existing infection, complex anatomy, retreatments) are managed across two visits with a calcium hydroxide inter-appointment dressing to maximise bacterial elimination. The clinical decision is made on the basis of what the case requires rather than scheduling preference. A 24/7 emergency contact is available for international patients experiencing post-procedure concerns during their Hanoi stay.
Pricing is transparent and includes consultation, anesthesia, rubber dam, all procedure steps, temporary filling, post-procedure medications, and one follow-up visit: front teeth USD $150–$250, premolars USD $200–$300, molars USD $300–$450. Both Hanoi branches operate seven days per week, and same-day emergency appointments are accommodated where clinically appropriate — an important provision for patients experiencing acute pain.
Technology: Rotary NiTi files (single-use), electronic apex locator, operating microscope, ultrasonic irrigation, warm gutta-percha obturation, rubber dam isolation standard Price: USD $150–$450 depending on tooth type, all-inclusive Best for: All case complexity levels including retreatment, emergency same-day access, verified international patient track record Hours: 7 days/week both branches
Best for: Long-term international patient relationship, verified root canal outcomes over years and decades, premium multinational team
Westcoast International has produced some of the most credible long-term root canal outcome data available in Hanoi patient reviews. One verified international patient — visiting annually since 2010 — describes having had two root canal treatments performed by Dr. Tien (Masters in Dentistry, University of Sydney) over that period, with follow-up assessments from Australian and American dentists consistently rating the work highly. Another verified reviewer reports having had 23 crowns, one bridge, and one root canal performed at Westcoast years earlier, with zero problems since, and notes that dentists in both the US and Europe have been “always impressed” with the work on examination.
This kind of longitudinal evidence matters specifically for root canal treatment, where outcomes can take years to manifest. A poorly sealed canal may feel normal for two to three years before apical infection becomes symptomatic. The fact that Westcoast patients returning years later are receiving confirmation from their home country dentists that the work was executed well speaks to the quality of the obturation and canal disinfection standards applied.
Dr. Tien’s University of Sydney Masters qualification is directly relevant here — the University of Sydney’s dental programme includes advanced endodontic training, and her expertise in this area is noted specifically by long-term patients. The clinic’s commitment to ongoing team education is explicit in their clinical philosophy: “Our entire team is involved with ongoing training and education to keep up with the latest advances in dentistry.” For endodontics, where technique evolution has been rapid over the past decade, this commitment to currency matters.
The clinic operates under Western standards with a multinational team from Germany, Canada, Australia, the USA, Italy, Spain, and Japan — meaning clinical decisions reflect international endodontic best practice rather than locally adapted protocols. Root canal is listed among the clinic’s core service offerings alongside implants, crowns, orthodontics, and full-arch restorations.
Technology: Latest equipment per clinic statements, Western-standard protocols Price: Premium-mid tier (confirm at booking) Best for: Patients seeking long-term relationship dentistry, premium standards, verified multi-year root canal outcome track record Track record: Nearly 20 years continuous international patient care
Best for: Specialist endodontic team including English-speaking endodontist Dr. Nhung, 4.9-star rating, transparent pricing from USD $165, international dental tourism packages
Greenfield has invested specifically in endodontic specialist capability, with multiple named endodontically-focused clinicians: Dr. Vo Nguyen Linh Chi specialising in minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Tran Thi Giang with 1,100+ dental treatment experience and specific root canal focus, and Dr. Ta Thi Hong Nhung — Greenfield’s lead dentist with a Master’s in Odonto-Stomatology from Hanoi Medical University and a Diploma in Implantologie Chirurgicale et Prothetique from the Université de Bordeaux — who is noted across international dental tourism platforms as an English-speaking endodontist with advanced technique expertise.
Bookimed’s independent platform — which uses data science algorithms combining patient demand, review scores, and clinical documentation — lists Greenfield as a primary Hanoi root canal destination with published pricing of approximately USD $165 per tooth. This pricing, combined with Greenfield’s 4.9-star Google rating and explicit English-language communication capability, makes the clinic particularly accessible for international patients who are uncomfortable navigating clinical communication in Vietnamese.
Greenfield’s dental tourism infrastructure — airport reception, hotel accommodation for two nights, full transportation throughout stay, all-inclusive packages — is well-suited to patients who are coming to Hanoi specifically to address a root canal combined with other needed procedures (a clean, fillings, or the crown that should follow the root canal treatment). The clinic’s patient coordinators are experienced in sequencing multi-procedure visits efficiently across a 4–7 day stay.
The clinic’s CBCT imaging capability is documented across multiple procedure categories, and while standard root canals may not require CBCT, the on-site availability means complex cases — calcified canals, suspected extra roots, retreatments — can be assessed three-dimensionally without referral to an external radiology facility.
Technology: Modern endodontic suite, CBCT in-house, English-speaking endodontist Price: From USD $165 published (Bookimed-verified) Best for: English-speaking endodontist confirmed, dental tourism packages, transparent pricing Rating: 4.9 stars Google
Best for: Dedicated endodontic specialist protocol, operating microscope standard for all root canals, ProTaper Gold/Reciproc files, laser-assisted disinfection
Eden Dental has published the most technically detailed root canal protocol description of any clinic in this guide — not as marketing language, but as specific clinical equipment and procedure commitments. Their documented standard includes: operating microscope or magnification for maximum accuracy on every case (not reserved for complex cases); premium rotary file systems specifically naming ProTaper Gold, Reciproc, and VDW as the instruments used; rubber dam isolation described as mandatory rather than optional; ultrasonic and laser activation for deep canal disinfection; high-quality obturation materials and MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, the gold standard material for perforation repair and complex obturation scenarios); and one-visit or two-visit treatment protocols depending on case assessment.
Eden’s clinical documentation also makes the failure scenario explicit — clinics without proper endodontic technology and technique risk persistent pain, abscess, missed canals, root perforation, broken instruments, and reinfection. This honest framing, combined with the specific equipment commitments they publish, suggests a clinic culture that understands what quality endodontics actually requires rather than treating it as a routine procedure.
MTA availability is particularly noteworthy. Mineral Trioxide Aggregate is a biocompatible calcium silicate material used for internal root perforations, open apex cases, and as a perforation repair material. It is significantly more expensive than standard gutta-percha and sealers, but provides superior sealing in anatomically challenging scenarios. Not all Hanoi clinics stock it, and its availability at Eden indicates investment in the full complexity range of endodontic treatment.
For international patients with complex root canal needs — calcified canals, confirmed missed canals on previous treatment, or cases where another clinic has recommended extraction — Eden represents a specialist-level endodontic option within Hanoi’s dental tourism landscape.
Technology: Operating microscope (standard), ProTaper Gold/Reciproc/VDW rotary files, rubber dam (mandatory), ultrasonic + laser irrigation, MTA, warm obturation Price: Mid-premium tier (confirm at booking, prices on nhakhoaeden.vn price list page) Best for: Specialist-level endodontic protocol, operating microscope standard, complex and retreatment cases, laser-assisted disinfection Distinction: Most comprehensively documented endodontic technology of any clinic in this guide
Best for: Published Zoom X-Smart Plus endodontic system, ISO-certified protocols, Harvard-trained lead dentist, dedicated sterilisation nurse, emergency root canal access
Australian Dental Clinic was established in 2006 as Hanoi’s first clinic specifically targeting expatriates and international tourists. Root canal treatment is explicitly listed among the clinic’s core services, and the clinic uses the X-Smart Plus — Dentsply Sirona’s professional rotary endodontic motor system — for canal shaping. This is one of the leading rotary endodontic motors in global clinical use, supporting ProTaper, WaveOne, Reciproc, and multiple other NiTi file systems with programmable torque and speed control for consistent, technique-independent results.
The clinic’s ISO certification covers its quality management system across all clinical procedures including endodontics, and the dedicated sterilisation nurse is an unusual staffing investment that signals commitment to infection control standards. For root canal treatment — where rubber dam, sterile field, and contamination prevention are foundational to outcome — having a dedicated staff member whose sole responsibility is sterilisation protocol compliance is a meaningful clinical quality indicator.
Multiple verified patient reviews document root canal treatment specifically at Australian Dental, with one long-term patient noting having had root canals performed at the clinic and returning for subsequent work over years without problems. Dr. Pham Duy Quang’s Harvard continuing education certification and the eight-dentist team provide clinical depth that allows emergency appointments to be accommodated, an important provision for the large proportion of root canal patients who present with acute pain rather than planned treatment.
The clinic’s free airport pickup is a practical benefit for patients arriving from overseas who need root canal assessment as an emergency — arriving in Hanoi with toothache and needing to navigate to a clinic is significantly less stressful with coordinated transport arranged.
Technology: X-Smart Plus (Dentsply Sirona) rotary endodontic motor, ISO-certified protocols, digital X-ray Price: Mid-tier, published price list on australiandentalclinic.vn Best for: Emergency root canal access, ISO certification, X-Smart Plus system, verified long-term international patient outcomes Established: 2006 (longest-running international-focused Hanoi clinic on this list)
Best for: Harvard-certified lead dentist with specific endodontic documentation, ICOI partner, iTero + CBCT digital workflow, 5,000+ clinical cases
Hanoi Sydney Dental’s Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Hai holds both Harvard School of Dental Medicine continuing education certification and ICOI (International Congress of Oral Implantologists) fellowship — clinical credentials that speak to advanced training in complex case management. Endodontic treatment in the context of complex restorative cases — root canals performed before implant planning, root canal treatment as part of crown and bridge sequences, or cases requiring coordination of endodontics and periodontal therapy — is where Hanoi Sydney Dental’s broad clinical capability is most relevant.
The clinic’s iTero intraoral digital scanner and CBCT imaging capability mean that root canal cases requiring 3D anatomical assessment (suspected extra canals, unclear apex location on 2D X-ray, retreatments where previous filling material must be evaluated) can be worked up with the full diagnostic toolkit rather than relying on periapical X-rays alone. The digital documentation from these assessments is also available for sharing with the patient’s home dentist — an important feature for international patients who want their treatment records on return.
Third-party dental tourism research cites Hanoi Sydney Dental’s team in confirmed testimonials, and the clinic’s 5,000+ case volume provides a statistical basis for reliable procedure outcomes rather than being an early-stage practice managing low case numbers.
Technology: CBCT in-house, iTero digital scanner, advanced rotary endodontic systems Price: Mid-premium tier Best for: Complex root canal cases requiring 3D assessment, Harvard-certified clinical leadership, root canal in context of broader restorative treatment Established: 2019
Best for: University of Melbourne-trained prosthodontist lead, root canal + crown sequencing within single trip, no consultation fee, three-branch flexibility
BeDental Premium’s clinical advantage for root canal patients is the prosthodontic training of its lead dentist, Dr. Nguyen Hoang Anh (University of Melbourne, ADA member). Root canal treatment does not exist in isolation — every molar or premolar that receives a root canal should receive a crown, and the quality of the crown restoration directly affects the long-term survival of the treated tooth. A well-executed root canal capped with a poorly fitting or low-quality crown will fail at the crown margin long before the root canal itself becomes a problem. Having prosthodontic expertise in the same clinic that performs the root canal ensures that the restoration is planned and executed to the same standard as the endodontic treatment.
BeDental’s no-consultation-fee policy is relevant for root canal patients who are uncertain about whether they need root canal treatment or extraction — attending an assessment appointment without financial commitment allows a full diagnostic evaluation including X-rays and clinical testing before any treatment decision is made. This reduces the pressure patients may feel to proceed with treatment simply because they have already committed financially to a consultation.
Three Hanoi branch locations across Ba Dinh, Cau Giay, and Dong Da give patients geographic flexibility in choosing the most convenient branch relative to their accommodation, and the multi-branch availability reduces scheduling constraints for patients needing two-visit root canal treatment within a fixed stay.
Technology: Modern endodontic systems, Ministry of Health certification, CBCT available Price: Mid-range, no consultation fee Best for: Root canal + crown same-trip sequencing, prosthodontic expertise for restoration planning, no-fee assessment, three locations Established: 2012
Best for: Verified international patient reviews, AI-powered digital planning for complex restorative sequencing, formal 5-step endodontic protocol, FDA-certified materials
Thuy Anh Dental has documented international patient engagement across multiple procedures and maintains verified reviews from patients who attended specifically for complex restorative treatment. Root canal treatment at Thuy Anh follows a documented five-step clinical protocol that emphasises material quality (FDA and CE-certified products exclusively), sterilisation standards (high-temperature autoclave and UV disinfection systems), and before-and-after documentation so patients have clinical records to take home.
The clinic’s AI-powered Digital Smile Design capability — while primarily relevant for cosmetic procedures — reflects the level of digital clinical infrastructure the clinic has invested in, which extends to their diagnostic imaging and treatment planning workflow for complex cases. For patients who need a root canal as part of a broader restorative sequence (for example, root canal followed by zirconia crown as part of a smile makeover or full rehabilitation), Thuy Anh’s digital workflow allows both the endodontic and prosthetic phases to be planned and documented coherently.
Thuy Anh’s no-upselling policy is documented in patient reviews and clinic communications — the clinic explicitly commits to recommending only necessary treatment rather than driving additional procedure revenue. For root canal patients, who are often anxious, in pain, and uncertain about whether they need root canal treatment or extraction, this commitment to honest clinical guidance is a significant trust factor.
Technology: Modern endodontic systems, 3D intraoral scanning, CBCT, FDA-certified materials Price: Competitive transparent pricing Best for: Verified international patient track record, honest clinical recommendations, root canal in restorative sequencing Branches: Dong Da (181 Yen Lang) and Cau Giay (10 Dich Vong Hau)
Best for: High-volume systems-driven operation, in-house German CAD/CAM for same-trip crown after root canal, transparent pricing, 2,500 patients/month efficiency
Shark Dental’s high-volume model — 2,500 patients monthly per branch — creates an operational efficiency that benefits root canal patients specifically in one important way: the same-trip crown after root canal treatment. The clinic’s in-house German CAD/CAM milling system, which is primarily marketed for crown and veneer fabrication, means that a patient who needs root canal treatment followed by a crown can have both procedures completed within a single dental tourism trip with laboratory turnaround measured in days rather than the weeks required by external lab outsourcing.
This is clinically significant. The correct protocol after root canal treatment in a molar is not to leave the tooth in a temporary filling for months — it is to restore it with a permanent crown promptly to prevent fracture of the devitalised tooth structure. At clinics that rely on external labs, international patients face a structural problem: the root canal completes within the trip, but the crown requires a return visit weeks later. Shark’s in-house milling capability eliminates this constraint for most standard crown cases.
The clinic’s transparent pricing policy is documented across patient reviews and clinic communications, and Dr. Cao Huu Duy’s team has been cited in independent dental tourism research on Hanoi practitioners. The high case volume also means the clinical team has substantial endodontic procedural experience by sheer repetition, which matters for the quality of routine root canal outcomes.
Technology: In-house German CAD/CAM (same-trip crown), Cone Beam CT, advanced rotary endodontic systems Price: Transparent, mid-range Best for: Same-trip root canal + crown completion, in-house milling capability, high-volume efficiency Volume: 2,500 patients/month
Best for: Extended hours for emergency appointments, nine-branch network for scheduling flexibility, 15+ years endodontic experience, root canal for patients combining with other procedures
Viet Phap International’s nine Hanoi branches and 8AM–7:30PM seven-day operating hours are the most relevant differentiators for root canal patients, who disproportionately arrive at clinics with urgent or semi-urgent presentations. An 8AM start seven days per week means that patients experiencing tooth pain on a Saturday or Sunday morning can access professional endodontic assessment without waiting for a Monday morning opening — a genuine advantage over clinics with weekday-only or limited weekend hours.
The nine-branch network also provides scheduling redundancy that single-location clinics cannot match: if one branch has a full appointment schedule, another branch has available slots. For two-visit root canal cases where the patient has a fixed Hanoi departure date, the flexibility to attend the second appointment at a different branch than the first is practically useful.
Viet Phap has operated since 2010 with an established patient base including both local and international expat patients. The clinic’s 15+ years of endodontic experience across multiple locations represents a substantial body of clinical volume, and their multi-procedure capability — implants, crowns, orthodontics — makes them well-suited for patients addressing root canal treatment as part of a broader dental visit that includes cleaning, fillings, or restorative work on other teeth.
Technology: Professional endodontic suite, standard rotary systems Price: Mid-range Best for: Emergency access (extended hours 7 days), nine-branch scheduling flexibility, multi-procedure visit convenience Established: 2010
| Tooth Type | Hanoi (USD) | Hanoi (AUD) | Australia (AUD) | Saving (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front tooth / Incisor (1 canal) | $150–$250 | $230–$385 | $800–$1,100 | $415–$870 |
| Canine (1 canal) | $150–$250 | $230–$385 | $900–$1,200 | $515–$970 |
| Premolar (1–2 canals) | $200–$300 | $308–$462 | $1,000–$1,400 | $538–$1,092 |
| Lower molar (2–3 canals) | $280–$380 | $431–$585 | $1,400–$2,000 | $815–$1,569 |
| Upper molar (3–4 canals) | $320–$450 | $492–$692 | $1,500–$2,500 | $808–$2,008 |
| Retreatment (failed previous RCT) | $400–$600 | $615–$923 | $1,800–$3,000 | $877–$2,385 |
| Zirconia crown (post-RCT, molar) | $200–$380 | $308–$585 | $1,500–$2,200 | $915–$1,892 |
| Molar RCT + Zirconia Crown (total) | $480–$830 | $738–$1,277 | $3,000–$4,700 | $1,723–$3,423 |
The molar root canal plus crown row is the most clinically relevant comparison for most patients. At a quality Hanoi clinic, the complete tooth-saving sequence — root canal treatment followed by a zirconia crown to protect the devitalised tooth — costs AUD $740–$1,280 all-inclusive. The same sequence in Australia costs AUD $3,000–$4,700. The net saving after flights and three to five nights of Hanoi accommodation is comfortably AUD $1,000–$2,500 for a single tooth, and scales upward significantly when multiple teeth require treatment.
Before you arrive. If you are aware of a tooth that may need root canal treatment — ongoing sensitivity to temperature, persistent aching, visible swelling near the gum — send X-rays or photos to your chosen Hanoi clinic in advance via WhatsApp. Most top clinics offer free pre-trip video consultations and will review your X-rays to provide a preliminary assessment and cost estimate before you commit to the trip. If you are arriving with acute pain, call ahead — emergency same-day appointments are available at most clinics on this list.
Diagnostic assessment (15–30 minutes). The dentist performs pulp vitality testing (cold stimulus, percussion), visual examination, and a periapical X-ray at minimum. For complex cases or where 2D imaging is ambiguous, CBCT is taken. The diagnosis determines whether root canal treatment, retreatment, or extraction is the appropriate clinical decision. At quality clinics, this assessment is thorough and honest — if a tooth is not saveable, you will be told so and offered appropriate alternatives rather than having root canal treatment performed on a tooth with poor prognosis.
Anaesthesia (5–10 minutes). Modern local anaesthesia administered well produces profound, effective numbness. For lower molars — where the inferior alveolar nerve block must be placed precisely to achieve full pulpal anaesthesia — some patients require supplemental injections (intraligamentary or intrapulpal) to achieve complete numbness. Quality clinics verify anaesthesia is complete before any preparation begins: you should feel pressure and vibration but no pain. Computer-controlled anaesthesia delivery systems, available at premium Hanoi clinics, make injection itself near-imperceptible.
Rubber dam placement (5 minutes). A clamp secures a rubber dam sheet around the tooth, isolating it from saliva and oral bacteria. This step is non-negotiable for quality outcomes and takes only minutes to apply. If a clinic proposes proceeding without rubber dam, the patient should decline and consider whether the clinic’s endodontic standards are adequate.
Access opening and canal location (15–30 minutes). A conservative access opening is created through the crown of the tooth. Under magnification, all canal orifices are located including the frequently missed MB2 canal in upper molars. This is where the operating microscope makes the greatest difference to outcome.
Canal shaping (20–40 minutes). Rotary NiTi files progressively shape each canal to a taper that allows thorough irrigation and obturation. Working length is confirmed electronically with the apex locator and verified radiographically. The canals are irrigated progressively with sodium hypochlorite and EDTA, with ultrasonic activation to maximise disinfection.
Canal drying and obturation (20–30 minutes). The dried canals are filled with gutta-percha using a warm vertical condensation technique. A final X-ray confirms complete, well-condensed obturation throughout the full working length of every canal. A biocompatible sealer is used to fill any remaining micro-spaces.
Temporary or permanent filling (10 minutes). A high-strength temporary filling closes the access opening. Most clinics provide aftercare instructions and prescriptions for any post-procedure analgesia or antibiotics if indicated.
For two-visit cases. Where active infection requires inter-appointment medication (severe abscess, calcified canals requiring multiple sessions, retreatment cases), a calcium hydroxide paste is packed into the canal system, a temporary filling is placed, and the patient returns 3–7 days later for the obturation appointment. Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic medication is prescribed to manage the infection during this interval.
After treatment. Mild-to-moderate post-procedure soreness lasting 2–3 days is normal and managed with ibuprofen or paracetamol. Biting on the treated tooth should be avoided until the permanent crown is placed. Most patients experience relief from their presenting pain immediately following treatment — the infected nerve tissue has been removed, eliminating the source of pain.
Root canal retreatment — removing old root canal filling material, locating missed canals or areas of persistent infection, and re-cleaning and re-obturating the tooth — is a technically demanding procedure that requires operating microscope capability, CBCT 3D imaging for case assessment, and specialist-level endodontic skill. Not every Hanoi clinic can handle retreatment cases. Clinics #1 (Picasso), #2 (Westcoast), #3 (Greenfield), and #4 (Eden Dental) are the most appropriate choices for retreatment cases on this list.
Common reasons previous root canals fail include missed canals (most frequently the MB2 in upper molars), short obturation that left infected tissue at the root tip, inadequate coronal seal allowing bacterial recontamination over time, or accessory canals that were not reached with standard instrumentation. CBCT assessment before retreatment is highly recommended, as it reveals the three-dimensional anatomy of the case and identifies the source of failure before instrumentation begins.
Retreatment costs USD $400–$600 at Hanoi quality clinics — still 70–80% less than the AUD $1,800–$3,000+ Australian retreatment price — and remains far less expensive than extraction plus implant placement as the alternative course of action.
Is root canal treatment painful in Hanoi? Modern root canal treatment performed under adequate local anaesthesia is not painful. The procedure removes the source of pain — the infected nerve tissue — rather than causing it. Most patients describe the procedure as feeling pressure and occasional vibration but no sharp pain. For anxious patients, IV sedation is available at select clinics on this list (confirm at booking). Post-procedure soreness lasting 2–3 days is normal, manageable with over-the-counter analgesia, and resolves on its own.
How many Hanoi visits does root canal treatment require? Most front teeth and premolars complete in a single appointment of 60–90 minutes. Molars often complete in a single visit of 90–120 minutes at clinics with advanced rotary systems and efficient protocols. Two-visit treatment is necessary when there is severe pre-existing infection requiring inter-appointment medication, when canal anatomy is extremely complex or calcified, or when retreatment of a previously treated tooth requires multiple disassembly and re-treatment sessions. Plan a minimum 4-night Hanoi stay for any molar root canal to allow flexibility for a second appointment if clinically needed.
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment? Almost always, yes, for molars and premolars. Root canal treatment removes the blood supply and nerve from the tooth, leaving it devitalised and therefore more brittle than a living tooth. Molars and premolars absorb heavy chewing forces and will eventually fracture without crown protection — often in a way that results in unrestorable damage requiring extraction. Front teeth, which experience lower biting forces, can sometimes be restored with a filling and post-core buildup without a full crown, but your dentist will advise on a case-by-case basis. Budget for the crown at the same time as the root canal — most Hanoi clinics can complete both within a 5–7 day trip.
Can I have a root canal done on my last day in Hanoi? Only for simple, single-visit front tooth cases with no active infection. For molars, having the root canal on your last day is not recommended — if two visits are required, you cannot attend the second appointment. If post-procedure swelling occurs or complications develop, you want access to the treating clinic for at least 24–48 hours. Schedule root canal treatment in the first half of your Hanoi stay, not the last day.
My Australian dentist recommended extraction rather than root canal. Should I get a second opinion in Hanoi? Yes, and this is one of the most common reasons international patients seek consultation at Hanoi clinics. Australian dentists sometimes recommend extraction for economic reasons — if the patient’s insurance covers extraction but not root canal, or if the dentist lacks specialist endodontic training for a complex case — rather than purely clinical ones. A quality Hanoi endodontic consultation with X-rays or CBCT can provide an independent clinical assessment. Clinics #3 (Greenfield) and #4 (Eden Dental) are particularly well-suited for second-opinion consultations given their specialist endodontic team documentation.
What happens if my root canal fails after I return home? If the treated tooth becomes symptomatic after returning to Australia or New Zealand, your home country dentist can assess whether the issue is a coronal seal problem (addressed by crown replacement), apical reinfection requiring retreatment, or an irreversible failure requiring extraction. Quality Hanoi clinics provide complete clinical documentation including pre- and post-operative X-rays that your home dentist will need for assessment. Retreatment by an Australian endodontist typically costs AUD $1,800–$3,000 — compared to returning to Hanoi for retreatment at USD $400–$600. For patients considering retreatment in Hanoi, most top clinics on this list provide remote consultation via WhatsApp and X-ray review before any decision is made.
Before confirming a Hanoi root canal appointment, verify the following five points with the clinic:
The first is rubber dam usage. Ask directly: “Do you use rubber dam as standard for all root canal treatments?” A clinic that hedges, says it depends on the case, or says rubber dam is optional should not be considered for endodontic treatment. Rubber dam is an absolute standard in quality endodontics, not a situational choice.
The second is the rotary file system. Ask which rotary NiTi system the clinic uses and whether files are single-use per patient. Single-use ProTaper Gold, Reciproc, or WaveOne Gold files are the appropriate standard. Reused files are both an infection control risk and a file fracture risk.
The third is apex locator availability. Electronic apex locator for working length verification should be standard equipment, not an optional premium add-on.
The fourth is whether the clinic can provide a permanent crown within your trip timeline if a molar or premolar requires root canal treatment. Ask specifically whether they have in-house laboratory capability or whether crown fabrication requires external lab outsourcing with a longer turnaround time.
The fifth is operating microscope availability for complex cases. If you have a molar root canal, a retreatment case, or anatomy that your home dentist has described as complex, ask specifically whether the clinic has a dental operating microscope and whether it will be used for your treatment.