GoBankingRates: “Why Is the Dentist So Pricey? 6 Ways To Save”
GoBankingRates, Sept. 9, 2025 — Marguerita Cheng, CRP® Pro, is featured in today’s article by Chris Adam, who writes, “If you’ve been to the dentist in recent years, you may be wondering why a simple visit costs more than a trip to your doctor. In fact, the national average cost for a routine dental exam is about $203, but it can easily be more than $300, according to CareCredit. Further, a single crown or root canal can set you back $1,500 or more.
So what can you do to keep your smile healthy while on a budget? Below is a look at some ways to save and why the dentist may charge more than you expect.
Marguerita suggests:
- Use In-Network Providers: According to Marguerita Cheng, certified financial planner (CFP) and CEO of Blue Ocean Global Wealth, you can also save money by staying within your insurance network when choosing dentists.
- Be Aware of Any Changes and ‘Bunch’ Payments: Cheng also suggested monitoring any changes in your insurance plans and potentially “bunching” expenses. “My daughter’s orthodontist gave me a $600 discount because I asked if I could pay for the remaining amount of her treatment,” she said. “I wanted to use my FSA balance and bunch my medical expenses. I had two family members have orthodontic treatment at the time.”