YDI, it sounds as though the endodontist was quite honest with you, which is good. It's such a bummer that this tooth is costing you so much money though! No way around it unfortunately. Don't stress about the 'what ifs'. Whatever happens, there is no way you should need to walk around with a tooth missing! There is always a way to replace it. If it comes to that, I would see a prosthodontist, they will give you the best advice. But hopefully it won't get to that point!

Good luck with the RCT, and please let us know the outcome