Diagnostics · Dental X-Rays · National Cost

How much do dental x-rays cost?

Average Dental X-Rays cost in the US: $125-$335

🏥 Based on ADA fee survey data
📊 Population-weighted national average
🔄 Updated May 2026
✓ Reviewed by Pearl clinical team
$125 – $335

Typical Dental X-Rays range across the United States

📍 All 50 states covered 🏥 PPO typically covers up to ortho max

National average

$195

Dental X-Rays · D0210

What is this procedure?

About this procedure

Dental x-rays are imaging used to find cavities, infection, bone loss, and other issues that aren't visible on a clinical exam. The most common types are bitewing x-rays (4 small images of back teeth, used to find cavities between teeth), periapical x-rays (single-tooth images for diagnostic detail), panoramic x-rays (one wide image of the full mouth), and full-mouth series (typically 18–20 images for comprehensive baseline).

Different x-ray types serve different purposes and have different price points. The fee on your bill depends on which type — or how many — you receive.

Price factors

What affects this cost?

  • Type of x-ray: A single bitewing costs much less than a panoramic or a full-mouth series.
  • Bundled vs. separate: Some practices bundle x-rays with the exam fee at a discount.
  • Frequency: New-patient and 3–5-year-recall full-mouth series cost more than annual bitewings.
  • Equipment: Practices with newer digital sensors may charge slightly more, but offer faster results and lower radiation.
  • 3D / cone-beam CT: A cone-beam scan (used for implants, surgery planning) is significantly more expensive than 2D x-rays.

By state

Where does this cost the most and least?

Pearl tracks pricing across all 50 states. Below are the highest and lowest cost markets — click any state for a full state-level cost breakdown across covered cities.

Highest cost states

Lowest cost states

Quote checker

What should your quote include?

Different providers bundle costs differently. Here's what a complete quote typically covers — and what's often left out.

USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE QUOTED PRICE

  • The specific type and number of x-rays being taken
  • Any required protective shielding (lead apron, thyroid collar)
  • Review of the images by the dentist
  • Digital copies you can request for second opinions

OFTEN BILLED SEPARATELY — ASK BEFORE YOU AGREE

  • The dentist's exam
  • Cleaning
  • 3D / cone-beam CT (separately billed and significantly more)
  • Specialist imaging review (e.g., oral surgeon analysis)

Health stakes

What happens if you delay treatment?

  • Cavities between teeth can progress unseen on a visual exam alone
  • Infections at tooth roots may not show symptoms until they're severe
  • Bone loss from gum disease is invisible without x-rays
  • Without baseline imaging, your dentist can't compare year over year

Before you agree

Questions to ask your provider

  • What type of x-ray are you taking, and why is it the right one for me?
  • How recently did I have my last x-rays?
  • Are these x-rays included in the exam fee, or billed separately?
  • Will you give me digital copies if I ask?
  • Is the radiation dose low enough that I shouldn't be concerned?

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

ADA guidelines suggest bitewings every 1–2 years for adults with low cavity risk, and every 6–18 months for patients with active issues. A panoramic or full-mouth series is typically taken every 3–5 years.
Most PPO plans cover one set of bitewing x-rays per year and a full-mouth or panoramic x-ray every 3–5 years. Coverage levels vary; many plans cover preventive imaging at 80–100%.
Modern digital dental x-rays use a very low radiation dose — a full-mouth series is roughly equivalent to a few days of natural background radiation. Lead aprons and thyroid collars further reduce exposure.
You can. However, dentists rely on x-rays to diagnose issues that aren't visible during a clinical exam, and may decline to provide care without them — especially for new patients.
Most dentists will share digital x-rays at no charge if you request them, especially if you're getting a second opinion or transferring care.

See local pricing

Compare what this costs in your city.

Pearl's cost data covers 485 U.S. cities. Search by procedure and zip — get a localized fee range and what to expect from your insurance.

Find your local price →