How Much is Dental Insurance?

What is the average cost of dental insurance?

There are different types of dental insurance plans with varying costs and coverage. Some cover you for the basics, while others go beyond the basics to help cover more complex dental services and treatments.

Learn more about some average costs for different types of dental coverage.

Dental insurance that covers preventive or routine care

Dental plans that cover basic dental care vary widely too. Most provide coverage for routine annual care, sometimes called “preventive” services. Preventive dental care usually includes:

• Two dental exams per year
• Two teeth cleanings per year
• Annual X-rays

A basic dental plan through Cigna Healthcare starts around $20 a month—that’s the monthly premium, or how much you pay for the insurance plan itself. After you pay your monthly premium, your routine exams and cleanings typically cost you $0. So, your cost over the course of the year is around $240.

Dental plans with more coverage

Depending on what kind of dental care you expect to need, you can find a wide range of dental insurance plans that cover the basics as well as more complex dental treatment. The costs for more coverage can also vary widely. A full-coverage dental plan may cover:

• Preventive care
• Basic restorative care (such as fillings)
• Major restorative care (such as bridges and dentures)
• Orthodontic treatments (such as braces or Invisalign^®)

What is the least expensive type of dental plan?

Dental plans come with a range of associated costs. If you know you need minimal coverage and are comfortable choosing from a limited network of dentists, then you may be able to save money on your dental plan.

For example, Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO or dental HMO) is one of the most common types of dental plans. These plans tend to be some of the most affordable, with lower premiums and copays. However, you have a smaller network of dentists to choose from.

Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO or dental PPO) is another common dental plan that often comes with higher costs. However, you pay to have a larger network of dentists and may be able to choose an out-of-network dentist.

Should I just pay out of pocket for dental care?

Dental insurance helps keep costs for dental care affordable. Let’s say you just want to get your routine cleanings and X-rays. The cost for a dental cleaning is likely much more than what you’d pay for a basic dental plan.

If you choose not to buy dental insurance, there are a couple of options for paying the bills for care:

Use your savings or spending account for eligible dental expenses

There are three main types of spending/savings accounts: health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement account (HRA), and flexible spending account (FSA). You can typically use these accounts to reimburse yourself for certain eligible health care-related costs, including dental services.

Buy a dental savings plan

Also called a discount dental plan, a dental savings plan is not insurance but rather an annual fee-based membership program. You pay for each dental service as you receive them. Treatments and services are discounted based on the discount dental plan you choose.

What are other factors that impact dental insurance costs?

There are many factors that influence how much your dental insurance will cost. This includes your age and location. In addition, when buying a dental plan, make sure to understand the following costs:

• Monthly premium - The amount of money you pay each month will vary on the dental plan you choose and what it covers.
• Deductible - Your deductible is the amount you pay for your dental care and services before your insurance starts sharing costs.
• Coinsurance - Your coinsurance is a portion of the dental costs that you pay after your deductible has been met.

What are the costs for common dental procedures?

Some of the common dental services and procedures include a dental cleaning, cavity filling, and tooth extraction. The cost of your dental procedures will depend on the type of dental insurance you choose. Here are some general guidelines regarding the costs for these services:

What’s the cost for a teeth cleaning?

The average cost of a teeth cleaning is $104.¹ The cost of a teeth cleaning will depend on your insurance, your dentist, and whether you need a routine cleaning or a deep cleaning.

Learn more about the cost of a dental cleaning.

What’s the cost for filling a cavity?

The average cost of a cavity filling is $160.¹ The cost of your cavity filling may depend on the type of filling material being used, the tooth location, and number of teeth being filled.

Learn more about the cost of a cavity filling.

What’s the cost for a tooth extraction?

The average cost of a tooth extraction starts at around $146.¹ There are several factors that impact the cost of a tooth extraction. These include the type of extraction, where you live, and the type of anesthesia being used.

Learn more about the cost of a tooth extraction.

Is dental insurance worth it?

Dental insurance can be a key part in protecting your oral health. Even if you only get two regular teeth cleanings each year, the insurance will likely pay for itself.

The cost of dental insurance can vary a lot depending on which plan you choose. Make sure to think about your dental needs and your budget when you select a plan. Read the details of each dental plan’s coverage to make the best decision for you.

Insured by Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company

¹ American Dental Association, Health Policy Institute, 2022 Survey of Dental Fees, 2022, accessed August 3, 2023

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with your dentist for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations.

Product availability may vary by location and plan type and is subject to change. All dental insurance policies contain exclusions and limitations. For costs and details of coverage, review your plan documents or contact a Cigna Healthcare^SM representative. All Cigna Healthcare products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group^SM, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company and Cigna Dental Health, Inc. In Texas, the Dental plan is known as Cigna Dental Choice, and this plan uses the national Cigna DPPO Advantage network. In Utah, all products and services are provided by Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company (Bloomfield, CT).

This page is not intended for use in NM.