How much are common dental procedures without insurance?

Data shows that approximately 88% of Americans have some sort of dental insurance coverage.¹ But that still leaves approximately 40 million Americans without dental coverage. If you're among those without dental coverage, how much can you expect to pay for common dental procedures?

Quite a bit, as it turns out. To start with, a routine dental exam alone runs over $200, on average, and major dental work can cost a lot more.² A recent study reported that 9 out of 10 people would delay going to the dentist because of the cost.³ Despite the costs, maintaining good oral health is vitally important. It helps protect your teeth, and can also help improve your overall health.

Knowing your expected costs upfront can help you budget and plan for your next dental procedure. This list can help you get a feel for how much a trip to the dentist might cost you if you don’t have dental insurance; but keep in mind that costs vary based on location and other factors. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to call your dentist's office and ask.

How much does it cost to go to the dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist for a dental exam and cleaning about every six months.⁴ If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, your first visit will typically be for a standard cleaning and dental exam. On average, this costs $203 but the price ranges between $50 and $350.* A dental visit typically includes the following:

• Teeth cleaning (with or without fluoride)

• Checking for cavities

• Removing plaque

• Inspecting for signs of gum disease

• Checking for chips or cracks

• Checking the condition of existing dental work, like fillings or crowns

• Discussing any dental concerns you might have

At the exam, the dentist will identify any problems with your teeth. If there’s an issue, they should help you come up with a treatment plan by recommending relevant services or procedures.

Average costs of basic dental procedures

Routine dental care is typically more affordable than major procedures, but the costs of routine services at dental offices can still add up if you don’t have insurance.

Source: Average Dental Costs and Pricing

Average costs of major dental procedures

For major procedures, multiple charges may be applied (for example, for dental sedation plus the actual procedure, for example). Here are some examples of average expected costs if you do not have dental insurance.

Source: Average Dental Costs and Pricing

Average costs of cosmetic dental procedures

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses optional procedures like teeth whitening and the creation of dental implants and dentures that help you look and feel better, while also providing functional benefits — such as helping you chew and digest food more efficiently.

Source: Average Dental Costs and Pricing

Dental insurance can help control dental care costs

The cost of dental procedures without insurance can be significant. Fortunately, dental insurance can be very affordable. You may have dental coverage through your employer, but if not you can purchase dental plans on the open market. In fact, some affordable dental insurance plans can cost as little as $15 per month.⁵

How does dental insurance work? The specifics of each plan will vary, but generally speaking, a dental insurance policy will cover a number of dental care benefits. The primary focus tends to be on routine preventive care, like dental cleanings, exams, and X-rays, which is often covered in full or with minimal out-of-pocket costs.

Not all dental plans cover major issues like dental bridges or more complex tooth extractions. However, those that do will typically cover a portion, but not all of the expense. Still, saving up to half the cost of these types of procedures can be very helpful. Many plans also have waiting periods for major procedures, meaning that you can’t sign up for a dental plan and immediately use it for a major procedure.

How can a dental insurance plan help me save money?