rayray - i've been having root canal work on one of my teeth for 18 months now and have been forking money out left right and centre. sometimes there are parts of the tooth that a normal dentist cant access - the endodontist i've been seeing has done minor surgery on my mouth twice to try and clear up the infection - i've had my tooth cleaned and packed a heap of times, and should hopefully be able to have it filled for good in october! i had previously had the full root canal done by the dentist, which cost about $700, but i ended up having to have it all redone.

from what i can gather, endodontists are trained in working with the tooth under the surface of the gum at the base of the tooth - and some of what they do can cost a fortune - definitely get a second opinion if you're concerned, but i'd say the price you've been quoted is pretty reasonable

feel free to PM me if you want any more info

BG