Average Dentist Costs: What to Expect for Common Procedures

Many harbor a fear of going to the dentist because dental restorative and corrective work can be painful. There is also a monetary fear because certain procedures can be expensive. For the most part, however, the costs for common procedures are reasonable, even without insurance.

Oral Examination

• A regular oral examination is the least expensive procedure, with the 2008 national average hovering at $30. An oral examination is preventative, as it can catch problems before they become painful and expensive.

Teeth Cleaning

• Prophylaxis, which involves removing plaque and cleaning the teeth, can range from $44 to $64, depending on whether the patient is a child or an adult . Oother cleaning-related procedures include fluoride application (roughly $24, mainly for children) and sealant application (roughly $36 per tooth).

Cavity Filling

• The 2008 national average for fillings ranged from $72 to 126 depending on what substance is used and how many surfaces need to be filled.

Crowns

• Crowns cost between $328 and $830 depending the type of material you opt for. Laboratory resin is the cheapest; noble metals are the most expensive.