How much does a dental checkup cost?
Overview
Regular dental checkups are the foundation of a healthy smile and help prevent costly emergency treatments. At Aspen Dental, we offer affordable preventive care to make getting started easier. Prevention is always more affordable than treatment.
Exam and X-rays for just $29¹ for new patients without insurance
Regular checkups recommended every 6 months help prevent costly emergency treatments
¹Offer available in select offices. For new patients that do not have dental insurance. New patients must be 21 or older to receive $29 exam and X-rays, a minimum $80 value; the value of the savings will vary based on doctor recommendation. Offer expires 12/31/26.
What affects the cost of a dental check-up?
Every smile is different, and so are your needs and costs. Here’s what can affect your overall cost:
X-rays & extra services
All new patients receive X-rays at their first visit, while returning patients will receive updated X-rays every 6-24 months.
They will also receive a full-mouth gum health check. This approach provides a complete picture of your oral health and helps guide a personalized plan for improvement.
Dental cleanings are typically scheduled for a follow-up visit after your dentist completes a full exam and reviews your oral health needs.
New vs. returning patients
New-patient offers include exam and X-rays for one low price.
Insurance coverage
Dental insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
At Aspen Dental, we make dental care affordable
Most insurance accepted
Explore dental insurance plans we accept. We do not accept Medicaid.
Aspen Dental Savings Plan
Save on routine and major dental procedures with our savings plan.²
Flexible financing options
99% of patients who apply for 3rd-party financing are approved.
²The Aspen Dental Savings Plan is NOT insurance. Please see plan terms and conditions for details.
What's included with a dental checkup at Aspen Dental?
Comprehensive exam evaluating all teeth, gums, tongue and oral tissues for disease signs
Preventive screenings for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other conditions
Necessary X-rays (bite-wing, full-mouth series, or panoramic depending on patient status)
Personalized treatment plan documenting any needed care and prevention strategies
Oral health assessment with recommendations for maintaining a healthy smile
Frequently asked questions about dental checkup costs
It depends on your plan. Many patients use dental insurance to help with the cost of check-ups, but coverage and benefits vary. Aspen Dental can review your information and help you understand how your plan may apply before your visit. We do not accept Medicaid.
New patients usually get a more detailed visit—often a full-mouth exam, X-rays and a personalized treatment plan. That can make the first dental check-up cost a bit higher, but many Aspen Dental locations offer discounted new-patient bundles to keep your first visit affordable.
At Aspen Dental, your check-up cost typically covers the exam, preventive screenings, and any needed X-rays. Routine teeth cleanings are a separate cost and scheduled for another visit. We’ll show both line by line so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
No. Most patients only need dental X-rays every 6–24 months, depending on age, oral health and cavity risk. Your Aspen Dental dentist will only recommend X-rays when they’re needed to see what’s happening below the surface.
A regular dental exam can catch cavities, gum disease and even signs of oral cancer early—before they become painful and expensive to treat. Investing in preventive care now often saves you time, discomfort, and money later.