How to Slash Dental Costs and Keep Your Smile Healthy
Does the cost of dental cleaning make you hesitate to book your next appointment? You’re not alone. Many people skip routine dental visits due to high prices, only to face bigger and more expensive problems later. But what if there were ways to make professional cleanings affordable—regardless of whether you have insurance?
The good news is that you can save on dental costs with smart strategies, including dental membership plans. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of dental cleaning, explore budget-friendly alternatives, and reveal how The Patient Marketplace can connect you with affordable dental care.
Quick Tip: Find a low-cost dentist offering membership plans on The Patient Marketplace today!
Understanding the Cost of Dental Cleaning
The cost of dental cleaning varies based on location, provider, and whether you have insurance. Here’s a breakdown:
- With Insurance – Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings per year with little to no out-of-pocket cost. However, you may still have copays or deductibles.
- Without Insurance – Expect to pay between $75 and $400 per cleaning, depending on your dentist and location.
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) – If you have gum disease, a deep cleaning may cost $150–$350 per quadrant, totaling over $1,000 for full-mouth treatment.
With these prices in mind, it’s no wonder so many people are looking for ways to reduce their dental expenses.
How to Save on Dental Cleaning Costs (With and Without Insurance)
1. Take Advantage of Dental Membership Plans
One of the best ways to save on dental cleaning costs is by joining a dental membership plan. Unlike traditional insurance, these plans are offered directly by dental practices and provide discounted services for a low monthly or annual fee.
✅ Lower costs – Membership plans often include free cleanings and discounts on other treatments.
✅ No waiting periods or restrictions – Unlike insurance, there are no deductibles, claim denials, or coverage limits.
✅ Transparent pricing – Know exactly what you’ll pay before treatment.
Find a dentist with a membership plan near you on The Patient Marketplace.
2. Compare Prices & Find Affordable Dentists
Not all dentists charge the same for cleanings. Shopping around and comparing prices through The Patient Marketplacecan help you find a high-quality dentist at a lower cost.
Pro Tip: Look for dentists that offer new patient specials or discounts on routine cleanings.
3. Use an HSA or FSA to Cover Costs
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for dental cleanings—effectively saving you 20–30%.
Learn more about how to use an HSA for dental care.
4. Ask About Cash Discounts
Some dental offices offer cash payment discounts if you don’t have insurance. Always ask if paying upfront can help you save.
5. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Cleanings
Dental hygiene schools offer professional cleanings at a fraction of the cost, supervised by licensed dentists.
Search for ADA-approved dental schools in your area.
Real Savings: How a Membership Plan Cut One Patient’s Costs in Half
Meet Sarah. She didn’t have dental insurance and was quoted $250 for a cleaning at her local dentist. Feeling frustrated, she searched online and discovered The Patient Marketplace, where she found a dentist offering an in-office membership plan for $199 per year.
Her plan included two free cleanings, plus discounts on fillings and other treatments. In the end, she saved over $300 in just one year—without insurance!
See how much you could save: Browse affordable dental plans on The Patient Marketplace.
The Urgency: Why You Shouldn’t Delay Your Next Dental Cleaning
Skipping regular dental cleanings might seem like a way to save money, but it can lead to costly problems like cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
Skipping cleanings can lead to an average of $2,500+ in future dental work.
Gum disease treatment costs can skyrocket to $4,000 or more if left untreated.
The longer you wait, the more expensive it gets. But with a dental membership plan, you can keep your teeth healthy without breaking the bank.
Don’t wait! Find a dentist with an affordable membership plan on The Patient Marketplace.
Take Action: Find Affordable Dental Care Today
If you’re tired of overpriced cleanings and confusing insurance rules, it’s time to take control of your dental costs.
Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist that offers a budget-friendly membership plan near you.
Don’t wait until dental problems get worse—start saving on your cleanings today!
