Explore digital x-rays
When you’re researching digital x-rays covered by Cigna, you want clarity on what types of imaging your plan includes and how often you can get them without out-of-pocket costs. Digital dental radiography uses electronic sensors instead of film, capturing high-resolution images that your dentist reviews on a computer. This technology delivers sharper images, faster results, and up to 80% less radiation exposure compared to traditional film x-rays.
What are digital x-rays?
Digital x-rays, also known as digital radiographs, convert x-ray photons into electronic signals. A sensor placed inside or outside your mouth captures the image, then software processes it instantly. Common types include:
- Bitewing x-rays: Show upper and lower teeth in one area, useful for detecting early cavities between teeth
- Periapical x-rays: Focus on one or two complete teeth from crown to root, ideal for evaluating root structure and bone level
- Panoramic x-rays: Offer a broad view of your entire mouth, including teeth, jaw, and sinuses
Benefits over traditional x-rays
Digital technology brings several patient advantages:
- Faster image availability—no film development time
- Enhanced image quality—zoom and contrast adjustments for precise diagnosis
- Lower radiation exposure—up to 80% less than film
- Easy sharing—instant electronic transfer to specialists or insurance providers
Digital x-ray systems also streamline recordkeeping, reducing lost films and manual handling. Furthermore, electronic images support more accurate treatment planning and patient education.
Types of digital radiography
- Intraoral sensors
- Captures detailed images inside your mouth
- Common for bitewing and periapical studies
- Extraoral sensors
- Positioned outside the mouth
- Used for panoramic or cephalometric imaging
- Phosphor storage plates
- Flexible plates scanned by a laser to produce images
- A hybrid between film and direct-sensor techniques
Each method offers distinct pros and cons in comfort, resolution, and cost. Your dentist will recommend the best option based on diagnostic needs.
Understand Cigna coverage
Cigna’s dental plans classify x-rays under preventive or diagnostic services. Preventive imaging—such as bitewings taken during a routine checkup—is usually covered at 100% when you see an in-network provider. Diagnostic x-rays, ordered to investigate pain or follow up on treatment, may carry coinsurance or require a deductible.
Preventive versus diagnostic coverage
Preventive digital x-rays are part of routine care and typically include:
- Bitewing x-rays every 12 to 24 months
- Panoramic x-rays every three to five years
Diagnostic imaging covers:
- Periapical x-rays for toothache or abscess
- Extra imaging for treatment planning, such as implant placement
While preventive services aim to catch problems early, diagnostic services target specific concerns. Note that diagnostic x-rays often count toward your annual maximum or deductible.
Cigna Dental PPO details
Under a Cigna Dental PPO plan, coverage generally follows this structure:
| Service type | Coverage level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preventive services | 100% | No deductible |
| Basic diagnostic | 80% after deductible | Includes periapical x-rays |
| Major services | 50% after deductible | N/A |
| Annual maximum | $1,000–$2,000 per year | Varies by plan |
| Deductible | $50–$100 individual | Applies to basic and major services only |
Preventive digital radiography is exempt from the deductible, so bitewings taken during your twice-yearly checkup are fully covered when you choose an in-network dentist.
Cigna Dental HMO details
Cigna Dental HMO (DHMO) plans feature set copays rather than coinsurance:
- Routine exams and cleanings: $0 copay
- Bitewing x-rays: $0–$15 copay per set
- Panoramic x-rays: $15–$25 copay
- Periapical x-rays: $5–$10 copay per image
With a DHMO, there is no annual maximum, but you must see a network provider and select a primary dentist. Copays vary slightly by your local plan.
Compare plan type coverage
While Cigna’s PPO and HMO offerings provide robust digital x-ray benefits, your coverage may differ if you rely on Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, or employer-sponsored plans.
Medicaid coverage overview
In North Carolina, Medicaid covers dental services for individuals under age 21, including preventive and diagnostic x-rays. Coverage details:
- Children’s routine x-rays: Fully covered
- Adult dental x-rays: Limited to emergency and medically necessary imaging
Because adult Medicaid dental benefits vary by state, verify your plan’s scope and provider network before scheduling.
Medicare Advantage benefits
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care, but many Medicare Advantage plans offer optional dental riders. If you enroll in a Cigna Medicare Advantage plan with dental coverage, you may receive:
- Routine bitewing x-rays at no extra cost
- Diagnostic imaging with a small coinsurance or copay
- Annual benefit maximums around $1,000
Plan specifics vary widely. Review your Summary of Benefits to confirm how digital x-ray imaging is treated under your Advantage plan.
Employer-sponsored plan options
Group dental plans through your employer often mirror PPO designs:
- Preventive x-rays at 100%
- Diagnostic at 80% after deductible
- Basic restorative at 80%
- Major services at 50%
Your HR department can share your plan’s Evidence of Coverage, detailing digital imaging allowances and any waiting periods.
Comparing with other insurers
If you’re weighing Cigna against other major dental insurers, note these resources:
- For Blue Cross Blue Shield x-ray guidelines, see dental x-rays covered by bcbs
- For Aetna’s digital imaging policies, visit aetna dentist for digital x-rays
This comparison will help you select the plan that best fits your family’s preventive and diagnostic needs.
Verify your coverage
Before you schedule digital imaging, confirm your benefits to avoid surprise bills. Follow these steps to make sure you’re fully covered.
Finding in-network providers
Using an in-network dentist is the easiest way to secure full coverage for preventive x-rays. To locate a Cigna-approved dentist:
- Log in to your Cigna member portal
- Search by location and specialty for “general dentist”
- Cross-check results with our guide on in-network dentist for exams and cleanings
Staying in-network keeps your copays and deductibles at the lowest possible level.
Preauthorization and claim submission
Some diagnostic x-rays require preauthorization under Cigna’s standard coverage policies (Cigna). To streamline claims:
- Ask your dentist to submit a preauthorization request if you expect diagnostic imaging
- Ensure claims include complete information and any supporting documentation
- Take advantage of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) for faster processing (Cigna)
Electronic claim submission can reduce errors and speed up reimbursement.
Tips to avoid unexpected costs
- Confirm frequency limits—bitewing x-rays are often only covered once a year
- Check your deductible status early in the plan year
- Ask about copays for panoramic and periapical images
- Verify whether any imaging counts toward your annual maximum
Pro tip: If you need extra images outside your preventive allotment, discuss payment plans or discounts with your dental office.
Answer common questions
What if I go out-of-network?
Out-of-network providers may accept your plan, but they can charge higher fees. You’ll often pay the difference between the dentist’s rate and Cigna’s allowed amount. To learn more about which offices accept coverage, see insurance accepted for dental x-rays.
How often can I get bitewing x-rays?
Most Cigna plans cover bitewing x-rays every 12 to 24 months as part of preventive care. Your dentist may recommend a different schedule based on your oral health.
Will my plan cover extra imaging for treatment?
Diagnostic x-rays beyond routine preventive films may carry coinsurance after your deductible. Always confirm with your member services team if you expect specialty imaging for root canal work, implants, or surgical planning.
Plan your next visit
Understanding how Cigna handles digital dental imaging empowers you to schedule x-rays with confidence. By choosing an in-network provider, confirming preventive coverage, and preparing for any diagnostic needs, you can maximize benefits and minimize costs. Ready to book your next checkup and digital x-ray? Log in to your Cigna portal or call your dentist’s office today to take full advantage of your plan.