How Much Do Dental X-rays Cost With Insurance?

Dental X-rays can detect small health issues before they become major, but these procedures aren’t free. A good dental insurance policy can reduce your total costs, but you’ll still have to pay some money out of pocket. The amount you pay depends on several factors, such as the type of dental X-ray, your coverage and location. If you or your child needs a dental X-ray, this guide will give you an idea of how much it will cost.

Does Dental Insurance Cover X-rays?

Most dental insurance policies cover X-rays. This procedure is treated as preventive care. You can review the policy’s terms or contact your insurer to see whether coverage is provided. Some insurance companies only insure certain types of X-ray procedures instead of each available choice. Some insurers may require that you add coverage to your plan to get coverage for specific types of X-rays.

Types of Dental X-rays and Their Costs

There are several types of dental X-rays with varying costs. These are some of the common X-ray procedures and their respective costs. 

Costs with insurance will assume that your insurance company covers 80% of the remaining cost of care after you make a small deductible. Most policies have low deductibles that are roughly $50 per year for individuals and $150 per year for families.

Bitewing

Dentists use this type of X-ray to look for cavities and tooth decay. You have to bite down on the device and it will capture images of your upper and lower teeth.

Cost with insurance: $10

Cost without insurance: $50

Periapical

This X-ray narrows its focus on one or two teeth rather than your entire mouth. It can detect cracks, fractures and other damage that may be causing tooth pain.

Cost with insurance: $10

Cost without insurance: $50

Occlusal

This X-ray provides images of the roof or the floor of your mouth. Occlusal X-rays offer a snapshot of how your teeth are developing. They can also help a professional detect jaw fractures, cysts or abscesses. 

Cost with insurance: $20

Cost without insurance: $100

Panoramic

A machine rotates around your head to capture images of your teeth. It can find large infections and other more obvious details but isn’t as nuanced to find small cavities. 

Cost with insurance: $36

Cost without insurance: $180

Cephalometric

A cephalometric X-ray captures an in-depth image of one side of your face. This X-ray helps dentists view jawbones, teeth, nasal passageways and other parts of your head that the naked eye cannot decipher. 

Cost with insurance: $40

Cost without insurance: $200 

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

A CBCT is the most expensive X-ray. It generates a 3D model of your mouth and is optimal before procedures like oral surgeries. A CBCT offers a level of detail that you won’t have with other types of X-rays and also has less radiation exposure.

Cost with insurance: $90

Cost without insurance: $450

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dental X-rays

The total cost of dental X-rays depends on several factors. These are the key details you should keep in mind.

X-Ray Type

Some X-rays are more expensive than others. You will have to pay extra if you want a CBCT X-ray instead of a basic Bitewing X-ray.

Dental Insurance Coverage

Dental insurance policies have deductibles and also require you to pay a percentage of the total cost. If an X-ray costs $100 and the policy covers 80% of the costs, you will first have to pay a deductible. If the deductible is $40, then the insurer will cover 80% of the remaining $60. In this case, you will cover the $40 deductible and $12 of the remaining $60. Once you get through the deductible, you will save more money on each procedure, but policies usually have upper coverage limits.

Number of X-rays You Need

You will have a higher bill if you need more X-rays. Some patients complete Bitewing and periapical X-rays during the same visit. It may be necessary to get multiple X-rays to get a better view of your mouth and teeth. However, it will also cost extra.

Your Location

Your premiums will be higher if you live in an area with more expensive dental services. The insurer may also increase your required copay toward expenses. Living closer to a city like New York will result in higher premiums than if you live in a rural area where costs are typically lower. 

Find the Best Dental Insurance for Your X-rays from Benzinga’s Top Providers

A good dental insurance policy can save you a lot of money and make you feel more confident about receiving preventive care. These are some of the best dental insurance providers to consider. 

Get the Right Dental Insurance Policy

A good dental insurance policy can minimize X-ray costs and help you save money on your bills. It’s important to consider the premiums, deductibles and coverage before getting started. X-rays are important because they can detect small issues before they grow out of control. Taking care of your body and following preventive care can lead to a healthier lifestyle. 

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