How Much Does a Dental X-ray Machine Cost?

A dental X-ray machine is an essential tool for many dentists and specialists. These machines provide vital imaging capabilities, producing either 2D or 3D scans for a wide variety of clinical applications. Because capturing X-ray scans is a vital part of dentistry, regardless of specialty, many doctors looking for new dental imaging equipment are likely upgrading their existing system or investing for a new practice. .

Purchasing dental equipment can feel like purchasing a car, you can expect to see a “sticker price” ie. list price, and then there’s an amount you will actually pay. Like the MSRP for a car, the new list price is set by the manufacturer of a particular model with a given set of features. Typically, this list price can be negotiated down to the average cost other customers paid for the same model.

Today, we’re going to share the average cost dental professionals pay for digital dental X-ray machines today, as well as some of the considerations that impact cost.

Types of Digital Dental X-ray Machines

With many digital dental X-ray machines available in the marketplace today, it can be challenging to compare brands, models, and features. It’s important to you, your staff, and your patients that you have the appropriate digital dental X-ray equipment to provide the absolute best treatment.

Before we discuss the cost of a digital dental X-ray machine, it’s important to know the types of X-ray machines available, categorized by modality.

The vast majority of dental practices utilize 2D panoramic imaging to perform basic exams for common treatments. Many imaging technology brands offer panorex machines that produce high-quality 2D images. .

For doctors offering orthodontic or similar services, these procedures may require a cephalometric scan. These can be captured by a pan/ceph machine, which includes both panoramic and cephalometric imaging.

The most advanced extraoral imaging technology available is cone beam computed tomography or CBCT.  A dental cone beam system  provides a much more robust view of the patient’s anatomy in 3D - allowing for advanced diagnostic capabilities and treatment planning. Many CBCT systems available in the marketplace today also feature dedicated panoramic imaging for basic diagnostic needs.

Finally, there are dental imaging systems available that combine all three of these modalities (panoramic + ceph + cone beam) - for holistic 2D and 3D imaging capabilities.

So, because the type of system your practice needs depends greatly on the treatments being offered, determining the modalities you’ll require is a necessary first step before shopping. With this in mind, below we’re sharing today’s average cost of a digital dental X-ray machine by each modality.

The Average Cost of a 2D Panoramic X-ray Machine

Choosing a 2D-only panoramic X-ray machine will provide basic imaging capabilities and help you reduce your initial investment cost.The price you can expect to pay for a new panoramic X-ray machine will range from $20,000-$30,000. Typically, systems on the higher end of this pricing offer more advanced features like a variable focal trough and extraoral bitewings. There are also brands and models available which are upgradeable to cephalometric imaging and/or 3D CBCT, allowing your machine’s capabilities to grow as your practice’s treatment offerings expand.

The Average Cost of a Pan/Ceph Machine

If you’re performing orthodontic treatments, you’ll likely need a 2D pan/ceph as a minimum level of imaging capability. The price you can expect to pay for a new pan/ceph X-ray machine will range from $30,000-$50,000. Again, there are models that allow for a future upgrade to CBCT at an additional cost.

The Average Cost of a 3D Dental CBCT Machine

CBCT machines, regardless of manufacturer, are typically classified into one of three field of view (FOV) categories - small, medium and large As the FOV size increases, so does the cost of the machine. And, similar to buying a new car, other factors like optional features, upgradability and warranties impact the price you’ll pay.

Today’s market offers machines at a range of prices. Small field of view systems start around $50,000, with medium and large field of view options topping out around $100,000 or more.  Again, there are optional features that can greatly impact the final price you’ll pay.

The Average Cost of a 3D CBCT with Ceph

There are a few brands that offer a dedicated 2D cephalometric module with their CBCT systems. Pricing is typically between $75,000-$100,000 for these machines. 

It’s important to know when shopping for this modality that some brands offer the holistic CBCT+pan+ceph with a separate 2D ceph attachment, which may require the patient to take multiple  scans depending on which exams are required. Other brands, such as i-CAT, capture one 3D scan that allows you to extract a 2D panorex and/or ceph image via their imaging software.

Save up to 50% Off New List Prices on Digital Dental X-ray Machines

Did you know that you can save 30-50% off these new list prices by purchasing certified pre-owned equipment?

For over 10 years, Renew Digital has been the leader in certified pre-owned dental imaging equipment. We have a wide range of panoramic, pan/ceph, and CBCT systems, as well as intraoral scanners, all from the leading brands dentists trust.

We guarantee the quality of our pre-owned equipment through rigorous testing and inspection and cover our products with comprehensive parts and labor warranties. We also provide full-service installation, training, and project management services, just as you’d receive with the purchase of a new system.

Ready to begin but not sure which brand or model is right for you? Our sales representatives are experts across all leading brands and our brand-neutral approach helps dental professionals match their needs with the right systems that will best serve their practices.

Get in touch with a dedicated sales rep by calling us at (888) 246-5611 or completing an online form. Your rep will work with you to determine how your equipment will be used, where it will be placed, and match you to the brands and models most likely to work within your configuration. From purchase through installation, Renew Digital is here to support you with the 5-star customer service we are known for.