Seeing the dentist can be stressful, especially when you don’t know how much your dental bill will be. Even routine cleanings can cost $75 to $200 without insurance.1
Understanding the average cost of common dental services can help you manage your budget and expectations. Read on to learn about the average prices of popular procedures and how different types of dental insurance can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Six common dental procedures and their average cost
Even if you brush and floss every day, many experts still recommend visiting the dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and exams.2 You may also need more complex treatments if you develop dental issues.
Here are some of the most common dental procedures and their average cost:3
1. Professional cleanings
During a professional cleaning, your dentist removes tartar that you can’t remove at home with brushing alone.4 When left unchecked, tartar buildup can increase your risk of tooth decay, gum disease and other health issues.5
Routine cleanings can cost anywhere from $75 to $200, while deep cleanings cost an average of $242 per quadrant (one of the four regions of the mouth). Dental insurance often covers two routine cleanings per year, enabling you to prevent plaque buildup without paying a lot out of pocket.
2. X-rays
Dental X-rays allow your dentist to view the internal structures of your teeth, gums and jaw, which, in turn, helps your dentist detect issues like cavities, bone loss and impacted teeth.
Dental X-rays may cost anywhere from $55 to $466, depending on the type you need. Fortunately, dental insurance often covers X-rays when they’re performed as part of a routine checkup.
3. Tooth extractions
When a tooth has severe decay, trauma or infection, your dentist may need to remove it to preserve your oral health. Simple tooth extractions typically cost around $177.6 Since they’re generally considered a basic procedure, some dental insurance plans help cover up to 80% of their cost.
4. Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that can help restore a damaged tooth’s shape, size and appearance. Crowns can be made from several types of materials, with the following price ranges:
- Resin crown: $697
- Metallic crown: $1,211
- Porcelain crown: $1,399
- Broken crown repair: $765
Crowns are typically considered a major procedure, so dental insurance may cover up to 50% of their total cost.
5. Root canals
A root canal treats infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth. During this procedure, your dentist removes the infected or damaged tissue, cleans and disinfects the area and seals it to prevent further damage.
Root canals for front teeth and bicuspids cost an average of $984, while root canals for back teeth can be more expensive at $1,337.7 Depending on their classification (basic or major), root canals may be partially covered by some dental insurance plans.
6. Orthodontic treatments
Traditional braces generally run from $5,834 to $9,221, while clear aligners like Invisalign cost an average of $5,108.8 Standard dental insurance rarely covers adult orthodontics. However, some plans may cover a portion of children’s orthodontic treatments.
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What factors influence dental costs?
Average dental care costs can give you an idea of what you might pay for various procedures. However, your pricing ultimately depends on your:
- Location: Dentists in more expensive areas typically charge higher prices to account for increased operating costs.
- Dentist’s experience and specialization: Specialists tend to charge more than general dentists.
- Treatment complexity: If you have a more complicated dental issue or require anesthesia, it may increase the total cost of certain procedures.
How dental insurance can help lower costs
Since dental care can be expensive, many people purchase dental insurance to help cover the cost. Coverage levels vary across plans, with comprehensive plans often covering up to:
- 100% of preventive services
- 80% of basic procedures
- 50% of major treatments
Thus, comprehensive coverage can significantly reduce your dental bill, whether you simply need routine care or require more complex procedures.
Just keep in mind that your plan’s deductible, copayments, coinsurance, annual maximum and network restrictions can impact your out-of-pocket costs.
Other strategies to reduce your dental expenses
If you’re not ready to purchase a dental insurance plan, some other ways to save money on dental care include:
- Payment plans: Some dentists offer payment plans, allowing you to spread out larger bills over time.
- Dental discount plans: Dental savings plans offer discounts at participating dentists for an annual fee.
- Dental schools: Dental schools may provide care at lower rates to give students opportunities to practice with close supervision.
No matter which cost-saving tactics you choose, make sure to ask your dentist for a detailed cost breakdown before major dental work, so you know what you’ll owe upfront.
Manage your dental care expenses today
Understanding common dental care costs can help you save money and manage your oral health. With the right insurance policy or cost-saving strategy, you can keep your dental bills under control and protect your smile without breaking the bank.
Sources:
1. HealthInsurance.org. How much do dental cleanings cost without insurance? Updated on October 30, 2025. https://www.healthinsurance.org/blog/how-much-do-dental-cleanings-cost-without-insurance/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
2. Time Magazine. How Often Should You Really Go to the Dentist? Updated on June 9, 2025. https://time.com/7289262/how-often-should-you-go-to-dentist/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
3. CareCredit. Dental Exam and Procedure Costs. Updated on N/A. https://www.carecredit.com/dentistry/costs/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
4. ADHP. Tartar Removal: A Healthy Smile Starts Here. Updated on May 14, 2025. https://www.adhp.com/tartar-removal-a-healthy-smile-starts-here/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
5. ADHP. Tartar Removal: A Healthy Smile Starts Here. Updated on May 14, 2025. https://www.adhp.com/tartar-removal-a-healthy-smile-starts-here/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
6. CareCredit. Dental Exam and Procedure Costs. Updated on N/A. https://www.carecredit.com/dentistry/costs/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
7. CareCredit. Dental Exam and Procedure Costs. Updated on N/A. https://www.carecredit.com/dentistry/costs/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
8. CareCredit. Dental Exam and Procedure Costs. Updated on N/A. https://www.carecredit.com/dentistry/costs/. Accessed on April 20, 2026.
