How much does dental checkup & exam cost?
A routine exam is the cheapest thing you'll do at the dentist — and the one most likely to be fully covered. Most plans pay 100% for two checkups a year, so your out-of-pocket is often $0.
| Cash / self-pay | $50 – $250 |
| Typical | $110 |
| With dental insurance | $0 – $40 out of pocket |
| Priced | per visit |
What changes the price of dental checkup & exam
- Whether X-rays are taken that day
- New-patient exams cost more than recall visits
- Big-city practices charge more
Estimate your cost
Adjust for insurance and compare with other procedures.
- ›Whether X-rays are taken that day
- ›New-patient exams cost more than recall visits
- ›Big-city practices charge more
National ballpark ranges for the US. Not a quote and not dental advice — always confirm with a dentist.
Dental checkup & exam — frequently asked questions
How much is a dental checkup without insurance?
A basic exam typically runs $50–$250 self-pay, averaging around $110. Adding a cleaning and X-rays brings a full new-patient visit closer to $200–$400.
Is a dental exam covered by insurance?
Almost always. Most dental plans cover two preventive exams a year at 100%, so you usually pay nothing beyond your premium.
Related costs
This is general US cost information, not a quote and not dental advice. Actual prices depend on your dentist, location, materials and insurance plan — always confirm directly with a dental office.