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FAQs: Dentist appointment costs, insurance & more

How much is my first visit going to cost me?

We believe that everyone deserves a healthy mouth. So, our dental care is not only thorough, but also affordable and accessible to all. Don't have insurance? No problem. New patients 21 or older receive a free comprehensive exam and X-rays.* - (*$19 in IL, TN.)

Your dentist will give you a comprehensive exam and recommend treatment to get your mouth on the road to healthy. The office manager will discuss costs and work with you to find payment options that fit your budget. Aspen Dental offices make flexible payment plans available to help you make your treatment affordable, and we pledge never to surprise you with hidden fees—we’ll provide a clear, detailed estimate on the cost of your treatment plan in writing, so you know what to expect. Discounts such as the free ($19) new patient appointment cannot be combined with insurance. But we’ll do everything we can to find a plan that gives you a healthy mouth.

Are your offices accessible to patients with disabilities?

Yes. Absolutely. Please let us know ahead of time if you would like us to make any special arrangements for you.

Can my 17-year-old bring his 6-year-old sister to her appointment?

A parent or legal guardian must accompany anyone under the age of 18 during an office visit.

How much is this going to cost me?

Pricing for services and procedures vary from office to office and state to state. Once you see your dentist and have a treatment plan, the office manager will provide you with detailed information about costs, financing alternatives, and insurance.  As always, we do our best to find a price and a payment option that’s best for you.
For more information, please see our Pricing & Offers section.  

Is the dentist in the office licensed?

Of course, each Aspen Dental dentist is fully licensed in the state in which he or she practices.

Can I schedule a first appointment just for a cleaning?

Aspen Dental dentists believe in fixing problems, not overlooking them.  An initial exam to check your oral health is the essential first step to giving you a healthy mouth. Based on your oral health, your dentist will create a comprehensive treatment plan. The hygienist will then quickly schedule your appointment for a cleaning.

How do I schedule an appointment with an oral surgeon?

Come to or call your Aspen Dental office. They'll help you take care of everything.

How do I schedule an appointment for a root canal with an endodontist?

Come to or call your Aspen Dental office. They’ll help you take care of everything.

Will I need to make arrangements for pre-medication?

Nope. The first visit for a new patient usually consists of X-rays, an examination by the dentist, and a consultation with the office manager to get all your questions answered. There are typically no procedures performed on your first visit.

On my insurance website, I see hundreds of dentists listed at your location. Is that true?

At Aspen Dental, each office works with a number of insurance providers in order to help make dental care accessible for you. Your insurance company website has likely provided a listing of all the dentists within our company, rather than a specific list by location.

Do you accept Medicaid/Medicare, etc.?

Aspen Dental offices do not work with these programs. They do, however, accept most other insurance plans, and offer a range of flexible, affordable payment plans. For more information on insurance and financing, please click here. Or contact your local Aspen Dental office and they can assist you. 

Do you treat children?

Yes. Aspen Dental welcomes young patients from the age of six and up. It's important to start caring for your oral health early! All patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian during an office visit.

Are you accepting new patients?

Absolutely. As a new patient, your first appointment will include a comprehensive exam, and may include X-rays and a consultation with your office manager. They will answer all your questions, as well as go over your treatment plan, pricing options and will help you schedule future appointments.

Does your office use IV sedation?

IV sedation is typically used only by an oral surgeon. Generally, the dentists will use a numbing gel or local anesthetic during treatments if needed. Oral sedation may also be available, pending the patient's medical history - be sure to discuss this with your dentist to determine if you're a good candidate.
For other tips on how to manage dental anxiety, please click here.

What is the difference between Novocain, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation?

Novocain is a local anesthetic used to numb only a particular area of the mouth. Nitrous oxide is a conscious sedation that is used to minimize anxiety – when used, a patient will be awake and somewhat aware, but will often feel like they are floating. Intravenous, or IV sedation is a conscious sedation that is used to minimize anxiety and affect memory – when used, a patient will be asleep for part or all of the procedure and will often not remember the procedure at all. 

I'm pregnant, can I come in for a cleaning?

Yes, oral health is extremely important especially during pregnancy.  Prior to your first visit, you must obtain a release form from your doctor indicating that you can visit a dental office. We will not be able to take X-rays during your visit.

I have no insurance and bad credit. Do I have any options?

You have many options. Aspen Dental dentists and staff strive to make dental care available to everyone. To start, the Aspen Dental Peace of Mind Promise® includes no surprises – we’ll provide a clear, detailed estimate on the cost of your treatment plan in writing, so you know what to expect. We also pledge to keep our prices as low as possible. Each office accepts a variety of third-party financing options for your convenience. Please click here to learn more. Or call your local Aspen Dental office and they will be happy to answer any questions you may have.