Dental Care in New York: My Experience with Dentists and the High Costs

Introduction

Living in New York is expensive in every way, and dental care is no exception. Many people are shocked when they receive their dental bills—especially because dental insurance in the U.S. rarely covers cavities or implants. In fact, I’ve come to realize that teeth are an asset. Yes, “asset” (資産) in the financial sense. Once you experience dental care in New York, you’ll understand why.

Today, I’d like to share my own near “trap” experience at a dentist in Midtown Manhattan, along with my husband’s much more painful (and expensive) encounter with cavities in NYC.

What Do Teeth Mean to Americans?

In Japan, slightly crooked teeth are not a big deal. But in the U.S., it can impact your social life and even career success. Orthodontics came from the U.S. to Japan, and here it’s considered essential.

• News anchors on CBS or NBC always have bright white, straight teeth.
• Many apply dental veneers or “tooth manicure” to achieve that Hollywood smile.
• Portrait ads and posters in New York almost always feature perfect, glowing teeth.

In short, in America, a beautiful smile = social credibility.

Dental Care Products in Stores

When you walk into any New York pharmacy (like CVS or Walgreens), the dental care aisle is massive. From electric toothbrushes to whitening kits, the options are endless.

Japan is catching up now, but 15 years ago the U.S. was far ahead.

Recommended Toothbrush in NYC: BOKA – Buy it now on Amazon

My Experience: A Fake Cavity in Midtown Manhattan

Years ago, I went to a Japanese dentist in Midtown Manhattan for a simple cleaning. Afterward, the dentist told me I had a cavity “almost reaching the nerve” and urged me to treat it immediately—at a cost of $300 for one tooth.

I felt uneasy because I had zero pain, so I ignored it.

One year later, when I visited my hometown dentist in Japan: Result: No cavity.

This made me realize that some NYC dentists are quick to “find” cavities and recommend expensive treatments or even unnecessary extractions.

Why You Should Get Your Teeth Checked in Japan

The Cost of Dental Cleaning in NYC: Then vs. Now

• 10–15 years ago: about $100 for a cleaning.
• Today (2025): average $200–$400 depending on the clinic.

My husband’s dentist charges $400 per cleaning, though he continues to go because of trust. Personally, I would not.

My Husband’s Horror Story: Columbia University Dental

My husband had multiple severe cavities due to bad habits in his youth (eating sweets and falling asleep without brushing).

At Columbia University’s dental clinic, he was told:

• 4–5 teeth must be extracted.
• Implants were necessary.
• Estimated cost: $50,000 (over ¥6.5 million).

Even with insurance, not everything is covered. The system is designed so that implants are extremely profitable for dentists.

He ended up refusing Columbia’s treatment and went to a Chinatown dentist instead (not something I’d recommend).

Japanese Dentist’s Perspective: Teeth Can Heal

Later, his Japanese dentist explained something surprising:

“Teeth can sometimes regenerate. Extraction should be the very last option.”

This is a stark contrast to NYC, where dentists tend to remove and replace teeth more aggressively.

The “Luxury Dentist” Culture in NYC

This may sound like gossip, but at dental association events in New York, many dentists show up in luxury suits, designer watches, and perfect Hollywood smiles.

It’s no surprise when you realize how profitable implants are. There was even a Japanese dentist in NYC whose flashy lifestyle and scandals once made headlines in local Japanese media.

Why Teeth Are Truly an Asset

From my husband’s $50,000 bill, I realized: healthy teeth = financial savings.
The better you care for your teeth, the less you’ll spend later.

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How I Keep My Teeth Cavity-Free

Here are my simple habits that have kept me cavity-free:

• Rinse my mouth after sweets.
• Drink milk (calcium helps).
• Brush after eating rice or noodles.
• Use a toothbrush that reaches behind molars.

Conclusion

Dental care in New York is high-quality but very expensive. Some dentists may even push unnecessary treatments. Personally, I trust Japanese dentists more—especially after seeing how aggressive the NYC dental industry can be.

Your teeth are your asset, so protect them wisely.