How Much Does a Dental X-Ray Cost? What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever had a toothache, gum pain, or needed a routine checkup, your dentist likely recommended dental X-rays. But how much does a dental X-ray cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Dental X-rays are an essential part of oral care, helping dentists detect cavities, infections, bone loss, and other issuesbefore they worsen. However, without insurance, the cost can add up quickly, making it difficult for many people to afford necessary imaging.
This guide covers the cost of different types of dental X-rays, how insurance affects pricing, and how to save money on dental imaging—even if you don’t have insurance.
Average Cost of Dental X-Rays
The price of dental X-rays depends on the type of scan, the number of images needed, and the dentist’s location.
Typical Dental X-Ray Costs (Without Insurance)
| Type of X-Ray | Average Cost Per Image | Cost Per Full Set |
|---|---|---|
| Bitewing X-Rays (Detects Cavities) | $25 – $75 | $50 – $200 |
| Periapical X-Ray (Single Tooth) | $25 – $100 | $75 – $250 |
| Panoramic X-Ray (Full Jaw) | $100 – $250 | N/A |
| Full-Mouth X-Rays (Complete Set) | $150 – $500 | N/A |
| 3D Cone Beam CT Scan (Implant Planning) | $150 – $750 | N/A |
Costs vary based on location and whether the X-ray is performed at a general dentist’s office or a specialist’s clinic.
Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dental X-Rays?
Most dental insurance plans cover X-rays as part of preventive care, but the extent of coverage varies:
✔ 100% coverage for routine bitewing X-rays (usually once per year).
✔ 50-80% coverage for panoramic or full-mouth X-rays (every 3-5 years).
✔ Limited or no coverage for 3D cone beam CT scans, which are used for implants or complex dental work.
Call your insurance provider to verify your coverage before scheduling your X-ray.
How to Save Money on Dental X-Rays Without Insurance
If you don’t have insurance or your plan doesn’t cover X-rays, here are ways to reduce costs.
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers discounted X-rays and dental treatments for an annual or monthly fee.
✅ Save 30-50% on dental X-rays
✅ No waiting periods or annual limits
✅ Immediate cost savings at participating dental offices
Example Savings: A $150 full-mouth X-ray set could be reduced to $90 with a membership plan.
Find an affordable dental plan at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Check for Dental X-Ray Specials
✔ Many dentists offer promotional pricing for new patients, which often includes free or discounted X-rays.
✔ Some offices offer bundled pricing, where X-rays are included in a cleaning + exam package.
Search for dental clinics near you offering new patient specials.
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost X-Rays
✔ Dental students perform X-rays at discounted rates under professional supervision.
✔ Save 30-60% compared to private dental offices.
Check local dental schools for affordable dental imaging.
4. Look for Free or Low-Cost Community Clinics
✔ Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and nonprofit dental clinics sometimes offer free or low-cost X-raysfor qualifying patients.
✔ Some charities and public health programs provide discounted dental care for seniors, children, and low-income individuals.
Check with your local health department for dental assistance programs.
5. Choose a Dentist in a Lower-Cost Area
✔ Dental services in major cities are often more expensive than in small towns.
✔ Traveling a short distance outside of urban areas could help you save money.
Compare X-ray prices at different dental offices before booking your appointment.
Why Are Dental X-Rays Important?
Even though dental X-rays add to the cost of care, they play a critical role in detecting oral health issues early.
What Dental X-Rays Help Detect
✔ Cavities & Tooth Decay – X-rays identify hidden cavities between teeth that aren’t visible during a regular exam.
✔ Gum Disease & Bone Loss – Dentists use X-rays to check for periodontal disease and jawbone deterioration.
✔ Impacted Teeth & Wisdom Teeth Issues – X-rays help determine if wisdom teeth need extraction.
✔ Infections & Abscesses – A dental X-ray can detect infections under the gums before symptoms appear.
Skipping X-rays may lead to bigger dental problems that require expensive treatments later.
Success Story: How One Patient Saved 50% on Dental X-Rays
Meet Jake, a 32-year-old who needed a full set of X-rays but didn’t have insurance.
Initial Cost Estimate: $250 for a full-mouth X-ray set.
His Solution: Jake joined a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace for $25 per month.
Final Cost: $125 total—a 50% savings!
“I thought I’d have to skip my X-rays, but a dental plan made them affordable!” – Jake, 32
FAQs About Dental X-Ray Costs
How much does a dental X-ray cost without insurance?
- $25 – $75 per image for bitewing or periapical X-rays.
- $100 – $250 for a panoramic X-ray.
- $150 – $500 for a full-mouth set of X-rays.
Does Medicaid or Medicare cover dental X-rays?
✔ Medicaid covers X-rays for children and, in some states, for adults.
✔ Medicare does not cover routine dental X-rays but may cover them if medically necessary.
How often do I need dental X-rays?
✔ Once per year for routine bitewing X-rays.
✔ Every 3-5 years for full-mouth or panoramic X-rays.
✔ As needed for dental procedures (fillings, implants, etc.).
Where can I get an affordable dental X-ray?
Check The Patient Marketplace for discounted dental imaging near you.
Final Thoughts: Dental X-Rays at an Affordable Price
If you’re wondering how much does a dental X-ray cost, the answer depends on the type of X-ray, insurance coverage, and location. While X-rays can be costly, there are ways to save and still receive essential dental care.
How to Save on Dental X-Rays:
✔ Use a dental membership plan (save 30-50%)
✔ Check for new patient specials at local dentists
✔ Visit a dental school or nonprofit clinic for low-cost imaging
Need an affordable dental X-ray? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find the best cost-saving options today!
