A single dental x-ray should cost between $28-38. During the Great Recession, you can probably get your first set for free. YES, FREE..EEE. Basically, that dentist is putting out a lost leader to see if he or she can find something wrong with your teeth. Beyond that, 4 check-up or bitewing x-rays may cost between $60-80, and a full mouth series (18 x-rays) or panoramic x-ray would cost between $100-200. If it’s a new practice or mature one that is trying to build or rebuild its patient base, often the x-rays are bundled with an examination that ends up as stated above – free. Most dental insurance covers x-rays at 100%. It is usually considered a diagnostic or preventive service.
If you are a new patient, the dentist should recommend x-rays to determine the present status of your oral health and to help identify changes that may occur later, unless of course he has super powers and can see your tooth and bone structure without the aid of an x-ray machine. (Wish we could do that.) X-rays give your dentist a necessary baseline of your present condition. They help your dentist detect any new cavities, determine the status of your gum health or evaluate the growth and development of your teeth. If a previous dentist has your recent radiographs, your new dentist may request copies of them.
A panoramic image is a single image of the entire upper and lower arch. This requires a different machine and can cost $125-175 or more. It shows the entire mouth on one image.
Dental x-rays are necessary to diagnose or detect tooth decay, impacted teeth, jaw problems, abscessed (infected) teeth, or current filling placement. An x-ray exam can help your oral physician see the small areas of decay between the teeth and fillings; bone damage from a tooth infection or cyst; bone loss due to periodontal (gum) disease; developmental defects; some types of tumors; the effects of trauma; and the position on unerupted teeth in children and adults. Dental x-rays can also reveal bone loss from periodontal (gum) disease, locate tarter build-up, find foreign bodies within the gum or bone, and see if there is enough bone for the placement of dental implants.
Finding and treating dental problems at an early stage saves time, money and unneeded discomfort that helps prevent more serious health problems. A good dentist will tailor a treatment plan to your finances, altering the ideal treatment as much as possible to help you afford it. If we can be of help, please do hesitate to call, email or make an appointment to be seen.
ZoAnna Scheinfeld, MS, DMD | Hanna Orland, DMD
Right Smile Center, LLC – Oral Physicians who care
290 Carpenter Drive, 200A
Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328
404-256-3620
www.rightsmilecenter.com
