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How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Dentist?
Cherrywood Dental • Mar 14, 2020
Many adults avoid visiting the dentist regularly to avoid the high costs associated with treatments. Those with fixed or low income, and people with no dental insurance are the least likely to seek dental care. As our bodies age, we are more susceptible to cavities, gum disease, and expensive treatments like root canals, surgery, or dental implants, and taking great care of your teeth and gums is more important than ever.
So what is the average cost to anticipate for a visit to the dentist? Here are some things to take into consideration.
Every Dental Office Is Different
There are a few key factors that affect the cost of a visit to the dentist. One piece of helpful information is that the dental office dictates charges. Things like location can dictate the price of treatment. For example, if the dental practice is located in a larger metropolitan area in a city, the cost will be higher. The final price you pay for treatments and services will be impacted by things like more expensive real estate, the dentist’s reputation, and if the office is a private practice or is an office for the general public.
Keeping Out-of-Pocket Costs Down
Another critical factor to take into consideration when determining dental costs is the specialty of the dentist. Depending on the dentist’s expertise, this can be a more expensive service. If a provider targets a specific niche, this also allows the dentist to determine a higher price point for assistance. For example, a dentist who specializes in cosmetic and restorative dentistry will have the experience and skill-level to provide top-notch dental restorations. However, services can also be more costly than a dentist with a more general practice for the same treatment.
Dental insurance is one of the best ways to keep out-of-pocket costs down. If you are unable to obtain insurance, some dental offices offer payment plans and discount dental plans to lower your bill.
Average Costs of Treatments
A standard dental exam varies with whether it requires an x-ray or a more extensive cleaning than a patient who just had their teeth cleaned six months ago. Dentists will likely recommend additional treatments depending on the outcome of your exam. These can be exuberantly high and can sometimes deter the patient from continuing care.
Here are some general costs you can expect for routine treatments. These prices are on-average costs, and it’s essential to remember that dental care varies, as previously discussed.
Exams and Cleanings
A basic dental exam costs between $50-$250. Teeth cleanings typically cost between $75-$250. If you have dental insurance, these treatments are frequently covered under preventive care.
Fillings
Depending on the type of filling, costs are typically between $50-$300. Tooth fillings can range in material and often include plastic, composite, resin, and porcelain. Associated costs vary depending on the material selected.
Tooth Extractions
Whether you will need surgery and anesthesia or not, basic costs for tooth extractions cost between $50-$300.
Crowns
Depending on the type of crown required and material used, you can expect for a dental crown to cost you between $350-$900.
Root Canals
Patients can expect to pay between $125-$250 per exposed tooth for root canal therapy.
Skipping The Dentist Won’t Save You Money
All patients need to realize that skipping the dentist won’t save you money. The most expensive cost of all is the cost of not seeing a dentist, and having minor issues go undetected and left untreated. If the damage to your tooth is too extensive, you risk tooth loss in addition to other related oral health issues.
If you’re concerned over the potential costs of visiting the dentist, let Cherrywood Dental Associates know when scheduling an appointment. We always strive to work with our patients to make dental treatments as pleasant and affordable as possible. Call us today with any questions on the pricing of services.