Concerned About the Cost of a Dental Exam? Here’s How to Save
A dental exam is essential for maintaining good oral health, but for many people, the cost can be a major concern. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or are simply looking for the most affordable option, you shouldn’t have to skip your dental visits due to price.
The good news? You can get a low-cost dental exam by exploring different cost-saving strategies, such as:
✔ Using dental insurance benefits to reduce out-of-pocket costs
✔ Finding budget-friendly exams without insurance
✔ Joining a membership plan for instant savings
And if you’re looking for affordable dental exams near you, check out The Patient Marketplace—a platform that connects you with low-cost dentists offering discounts and payment plans.
Let’s dive in!
1. How Much Does a Dental Exam Cost?
The cost of a dental exam depends on several factors, including:
- The type of exam (basic vs. comprehensive)
- The dentist’s location
- Whether X-rays or additional treatments are needed
Average Cost of a Dental Exam (Without Insurance)
| Type of Exam | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Exam | $50 – $200 |
| Comprehensive Exam | $100 – $300 |
| X-rays (if needed) | $25 – $250 |
| Cleaning (if included) | $75 – $250 |
Important: If your dentist finds cavities, gum disease, or other issues, additional treatments will increase the total cost.
So, how can you reduce your expenses?
2. How to Save on the Cost of a Dental Exam With Insurance
If you have dental insurance, you might be eligible for free or low-cost exams—but only if you maximize your benefits correctly.
How to Use Insurance for Affordable Dental Exams
✔ Check your policy coverage – Many plans cover 100% of preventive exams every 6 months.
✔ Visit an in-network dentist – Choosing an in-network provider ensures you get the lowest possible rates.
✔ Use your benefits before they reset – Most dental insurance plans expire annually, meaning unused benefits are lost.
✔ Confirm if X-rays are covered – Some policies don’t cover X-rays, which could increase your out-of-pocket costs.
Pro Tip: If your insurance doesn’t cover all costs, pairing it with a membership plan can help you save even more.
3. How to Get an Affordable Dental Exam Without Insurance
If you don’t have dental insurance, getting a check-up might feel too expensive—but there are still ways to save!
Ways to Get a Cheap Dental Exam Without Insurance
✔ Look for New Patient Specials – Many dentists offer discounted first-time exams for new patients.
✔ Visit a Dental School – Dental schools provide low-cost check-ups under professional supervision.
✔ Shop Around for Pricing – The cost of an exam varies by location, so compare multiple dentists.
✔ Find Community Health Clinics – Some local clinics offer free or low-cost dental care for qualifying patients.
Best Option: The most reliable way to save on dental exams and check-ups is to join a membership plan, which provides instant discounts on preventive care.
4. The Ultimate Money-Saving Hack: Dental Membership Plans
What Is a Dental Membership Plan?
A dental membership plan is NOT insurance—it’s an affordable alternative that provides discounted rates on exams, cleanings, and other treatments.
Instead of paying high monthly premiums for traditional insurance, you pay a small annual or monthly fee for instant savings at a participating dentist.
Benefits of a Membership Plan:
✔ NO waiting periods, deductibles, or hidden fees
✔ FREE or discounted exams & cleanings
✔ 20-50% off additional treatments
✔ Ideal for uninsured patients looking for affordable care
How a Patient Saved $250 on a Dental Exam
Meet Alex, a college student who needed a routine dental check-up but was quoted $250—more than he could afford.
A friend told him about The Patient Marketplace, where he found a dentist offering a membership plan.
For just $199 per year, Alex received:
✔ FREE dental exams
✔ FREE routine cleanings
✔ Discounts on fillings, crowns, and more
Instead of paying $250 per visit, Alex saved hundreds of dollars—while keeping his smile healthy.
Want to see how much YOU could save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist offering membership plans near you.
5. Why Skipping a Dental Exam Can Cost You More
Many people avoid dental exams to save money, but skipping check-ups often leads to higher expenses later.
Cavities go unnoticed and require costly fillings or root canals.
Gum disease progresses, leading to deep cleanings or extractions.
Serious oral health problems (like infections) are missed.
The sooner you get a check-up, the more money you’ll save by preventing bigger problems!
6. Find an Affordable Dental Exam Near You
A dental exam is an important part of preventing oral health issues, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need a flexible payment plan, you have affordable choices:
Best for insured patients: Use your benefits & visit an in-network dentist.
Best for uninsured patients: Look for new patient specials & dental schools.
Best for major savings: Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.
Ready to book a budget-friendly dental exam? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a top-rated, affordable dentist near you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a dental exam cost without insurance?
Without insurance, a dental exam typically costs between $50 and $300, depending on location and services included.
How can I get a free dental exam?
Some community health clinics, dental schools, and nonprofit programs offer free check-ups for qualifying patients.
Are membership plans better than dental insurance?
For many patients, YES! Membership plans provide instant savings with no waiting periods or claim denials.
Where can I find an affordable dental exam near me?
Visit The Patient Marketplace to find low-cost dental exams near you.
How often should I get a dental exam?
Most dentists recommend a check-up every 6 months to maintain good oral health.
Final Thoughts – Get an Affordable Dental Exam Today!
A dental exam is essential for preventing major dental problems, and it doesn’t have to be expensive. By using insurance, shopping for discounts, or joining a membership plan, you can cut your check-up costs by up to 50%.
Ready to book your next dental exam for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!
