Average Dental Costs and Pricing

How Much Does the Dentist Cost?

Decoding the cost of a dazzling smile can be intimidating and sometimes difficult to determine. For some, not understanding the costs of dental procedures can turn them off from visiting the dentist. In fact, Synchrony's "Dental Lifetime of Care" study reveals that nine out of 10 people surveyed would postpone going to the dentist because of the cost. Eighty-three percent admit that they would even put off emergency dental care due to concerns about how they would pay for it.¹

Below, we'll explore average pricing for some common reasons you need to visit the dentist, from regular cleanings that include X-rays to specialty treatments and procedures like root canals, wisdom teeth removal and veneers.

Average Cost of a Dental Exam and Cleaning

The national average cost* for a routine dental exam that includes a dental cleaning and X-rays stands at $203, with costs varying between $50 and $350.²

Typically, a routine dental exam involves:³

• Teeth cleaning (a fluoride treatment may or may not be included)
• Examining for cracks or chips
• Checking for cavities
• Inspecting gums for signs of gum disease
• Discussing any concerns or symptoms you may be having

Usually, the dentist will do the final checkup at the end of the appointment.³

The chart below, based on CareCredit's 2023 Average Procedural Cost Study for Dental Practices Across the United States, presents average costs* for dental exams by state or district.²

Routine Dental Procedure Cost List

Below is a list of common dental procedures you or a family member may require, along with their average costs.* Varying factors can determine what you'll pay for some of these dental procedures or products when you don't have dental insurance.⁴

Cosmetic Dentistry Costs

To keep your smile looking its best, you may elect to have one of these cosmetic dental procedures. Let's examine their average costs*:⁴