How Much Does a Cone Beam CT Scan Cost?

Last Updated on March 16, 2025
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an advanced 3D dental imaging technique that provides detailed views of dental structures to assist with accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment planning.

However, CBCT scans come with considerable costs for patients and dental practices alike. This in-depth guide examines every aspect of CBCT scan pricing, insurance coverage, and techniques for maximizing affordability.

This guide addresses these critical questions surrounding the financial planning for cone beam CT dental imaging services.

How Much Does a Cone Beam CT Scan Cost?

General Patient Cost Range

For patients paying cash prices without insurance, expect to pay $200 to $500 for a single CBCT scan depending on the specific machine, number of images, and facility charges. With dental insurance, out-of-pocket costs may range from $50 to $250.

Impact of Location on Pricing

CBCT scans performed at hospital radiology centers average $400 to $600 in metropolitan areas, while smaller outpatient clinics range from $150 to $350 in rural locations.

Effect of Costs on Patient Choices

The high out-of-pocket costs of CBCT scans deter some patients from following through on recommended imaging. This can negatively impact access to optimal diagnosis and treatment planning.

Role of Insurance in Affordability

Insurance significantly influences affordability, with policies covering anywhere from 50% to 90% of costs. Uninsured patients pay the full scan costs out-of-pocket.

As shown, location, facility type, and insurance coverage heavily sway CBCT scan costs for patients. Next, let’s examine the price components.

The cost of a Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scan in the US can vary based on several factors, including the location and the specific application of the scan. According to NewMouth, the typical cost for a CBCT scan in a dental setting ranges from $200 to $1,000. This price variation reflects differences in the complexity of the scan and the technology used by different providers.

Another source, Healthgrades, notes that the cost of a CBCT scan can be influenced by whether it is covered by insurance and the specific medical condition being evaluated. For instance, if the scan is used for diagnostic purposes in a medical setting, insurance may cover part or all of the cost, potentially reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

For orthodontic or dental applications, Dentistry Today highlights that the cost can be higher due to the specialized nature of the equipment and expertise required. In these cases, patients might expect to pay closer to the upper end of the range, potentially exceeding $1,000 if additional services or consultations are included.

According to MDsave, the price for a CBCT scan can vary significantly based on location and provider. They report prices ranging from $200 to over $1,000, emphasizing that shopping around and comparing prices can help patients find more affordable options.

CBCT Scan Cost Breakdown

Facility and Equipment Fees

As the base fee for performing the scan, these range from $150 at small dental offices to $400-$600 at large hospital centers, depending on the technology.

Radiologist Interpretation

A radiologist or specialist reviews the scan, typically charging $75-$200 depending on case complexity.

Technical Fees

Fees for staff time, materials, computer power, and software licenses contribute to the scan costs.

Administrative Fees

Billing, scheduling, and handling of records add to the total scan charges.

Real-World CBCT Scan Cost Examples

Dental Office CBCT – Small Town

Scan fee: $225
Radiologist read: $100
Total: $325

Hospital Radiology Center – Major City

Scan fee: $575
Radiologist read: $150
Total: $725

As demonstrated, facility type and location drive pricing variances. Now let’s explore what factors influence the costs.

You might also like our articles about the cost of a HIDA scan, MRCP scan, or X-ray technician school.

Factors Influencing Scan Costs

Location – Urban hospital centers incur higher operational costs that translate to higher scan fees.

Provider Reputation & Technology – Prominent radiology groups and cutting-edge equipment allow charging higher prices.

Insurance Coverage – Policies with lower deductibles and higher dental coverage keep patient out-of-pocket costs down.

Case Complexity – More detailed scans or extensive radiologist consults elevate costs.

Healthcare Policy Changes – Legislation and regulations have the potential to impact medical pricing structures.

Economic Conditions – General inflation rates and regional economic variances affect healthcare services pricing.

Alternative Imaging

Traditional CT Scans – Cover more areas at once but cost $1,500-$5,000 with insurance, limiting dental uses.

Panoramic Xrays – Fast 2D views of entire mouth but lack detail compared to 3D CBCT scans.

MRI Scans – Better visualize soft tissues but excessively expensive at $2,600+ with insurance.

2D Intraoral Dental Xrays – Smaller field of view than CBCT but only $50-$150 for a complete series.

Reduce CBCT Scan Costs for Patients

• Compare prices and negotiate rates between facilities
• Optimize insurance selection and reevaluate policies annually
• Inquire about discounts for new patients or cash payments
• Arrange financing plans at facilities offering payment options
• Bundle multiple scans into discounted packages when feasible
• Only use CBCT selectively based on clear diagnostic necessity

Expert Recommendations

“Have the scan performed at an accredited orthodontic or dental office for more favorable pricing compared to hospitals when appropriate based on your specific case,” suggests Dr. Ellen Chadwick, dentist at Comfort Care Dentistry.

“Carefully evaluate if CBCT is truly required, or if traditional 2D dental x-rays can provide sufficient diagnostic information at a lower cost for your situation,” recommends Dr. Brian Collins, orthodontist at Bright Smiles Orthodontics.

“Always check that your dentist is in-network with your dental insurance to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs on CBCT scans and other services,” advises Dr. Priya Patel, dental insurance administrator at Toothville USA.

“Ask your dentist if they offer package deals or bundled pricing to reduce costs when multiple family members require CBCT scans,” says Dr. Greg Richardson, dentist at Richardson Family Dental.

Patient Experiences

Positive reviews highlight some dental offices offering relatively affordable CBCT scans for cash-paying patients. However, many express frustration regarding prohibitively costly hospital facility fees and limited dental insurance coverage. Patients appreciate dental providers offering no-interest financing plans to pay over 6 or 12 months when upfront lump payment is challenging. Those with extensive insurance tend to report higher satisfaction with reasonable out-of-pocket expenses for scans.

Future Trajectory of CBCT Scan Costs

Industry experts foresee several likely trends shaping CBCT scan costs moving forward:

• Gradual decreases in CBCT equipment costs improving accessibility
• Ongoing insurance coverage expansions for dental imaging services
• Increased utilization reducing profit margins and stabilizing consumer pricing
• Artificial intelligence integration improving productivity but increasing upfront costs
• Ongoing competition between providers constraining price hikes

The costs associated with cone beam CT technology significantly influence broader dental market dynamics in key ways:

Driving Adoption

Declining CBCT equipment costs will expand adoption, especially among smaller general dentistry practices.

Increasing Utilization

Greater insurance coverage for CBCT scans improves patient affordability and promotes utilization.

Segmentation by Price

Varying capabilities allow manufacturers to target both high-end and budget-conscious market segments.

Evolving Business Models

To ease patient costs, more dental providers may lease CBCT systems or partner with imaging centers.

Raising Policy Issues

Pricing discrepancies between facilities highlight issues around price transparency regulation.

Forging Vendor Relationships

Dental practices build partnerships with CBCT equipment vendors to negotiate pricing deals and optimize scanner utilization.

While reducing costs long-term, advancing technology also raises challenges surrounding equitable patient access and insurance policy gaps.

Final Words

With mindful selection of reasonably priced facilities, careful comparison shopping, selective and appropriate use of scans, and leveraging dental insurance, consumers can aim to optimize affordability.

Practices should employ scanner capacity prudently, focus on diagnostically necessary scans, and strengthen vendor relationships in order to manage expenses. An awareness of the complex interplay between technology innovation and issues of equitable access can equip the dental industry to enjoy the benefits of CBCT in a cost-effective manner.