How Much Do Panoramic Dental X-Rays Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

A panoramic dental x-ray will use a small dosage of ionizing radiation to capture the entire mouth, including the teeth, upper and lower jaws, as well as the tissues and structures, all in one image.  Commonly found in a dentist office, it can also be found in an oral surgeon’s office as well.  This type of x-ray is designed to propose a strategy for braces, implants, dentures and extractions.

Dr. Alan Carr points out the broken root by Wonderlane, on Flickr
Dr. Alan Carr points out the broken root” (CC BY 2.0) by Wonderlane

How much do panoramic dental x-rays cost?

On average, panoramic dental x rays cost anywhere from $75 to $225 without insuranceIf the x-rays are combined with a dental exam, the full package can cost anywhere from $125 to $250.  Check with your insurance carrier to see if you’ll be covered since dental riders are optional with most health insurance policies.

The Right Smile says these x-rays could cost $100 to $200, but if it’s a new practice, the x-rays could be bundled with a cleaning, bringing down the costs significantly.

PlacidWay notes that a panoramic x-ray can be three to five times more than the traditional bitewing x-ray series.  Four bitewings could cost as little as $40, while a full mouth series could cost up to $250.

Panoramic dental x-rays overview

Before the x-ray, you will have to put on a lead apron to protect your body from any radiation exposure.  The machine will have two sides and an x-ray tube will be positioned on one side and the x-ray film will be on the other.  Placing your chin on a rest, the technician will secure your head, you will be equipped with a bite blocker to loosen the mouth as the machine twists in a semicircle to capture images.  This machine can accommodate someone who’s standing or in a wheelchair.  It will start on one side of the jaw and end on the other.  The whole process takes about 30 seconds to complete.

Unlike the traditional x-rays that were printed on images, these images will be processed digitally and can be accessed immediately on a computer.  With these images, the dentist will be able to change the brightness and contrast of the images to make a proper diagnosis if they have to.

What are the extra costs?

If the x-ray show areas that need immediate attention, a dentist may recommend an emergency procedure or procedure for the future.  If this is the case, the price will vary depending on the procedure that is needed.  This x-ray will be able to reveal problems such as periodontal disease, cysts, tumors, impacted teeth, jaw disorders and sinusitis.  If any of this is present, the dentist or oral surgeon will want to take action immediately.

Tips to know

With the exception of removing eyeglasses and jewelry, this type of x-ray will require no preparation; however, if you are pregnant, talk with your dentist ahead of time as there may be limitations.

Compared to a traditional dental x-ray, a panoramic machine leaves no radiation behind and the machine has shown no side effects during the exam.

How can I save money?

Many dentist offices offer discounts to first-time customers.  If you’re in need of a new dentist, consider looking for a reputable office with enticing first patient offers.

Check with your insurance since most dental plans and insurance companies will cover this procedure 100 percent.


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Average Reported Cost: $140

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Less Expensive $1 $1.5K $3K $5K $6.5K More Expensive $8k

How much did you spend?

Was it worth it?  

  1. David Cook (seattle,  wa) paid $ and said:

    I wanted to correct an error. A panoramic X ray machine a dentist may purchase costs between $20,000 and $60,000 dollars. I sell every name brand xray and have for many years. These are an incredible investment both in their business but also in their patients health.

    Was it worth it? Yes

  2. Linda Roberts (Dover,  Delaware) paid $370 and said:

    I think this is outrageous.

    My husband just paid $370 for a dental exam, cleaning and a panoramic x-ray.

    Last year, our dentist charged me $1600 for 8 cavities.

    My husband thinks this is normal costs but I think it is a rip off.

    What can we do?

    Was it worth it? Yes

  3. Jose (San Juan,  Puerto Rico) paid $50 and said:

    $50 for digital panoramic xray in Las Americas Medical Building

    Was it worth it? Yes

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