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Dental Cleaning Cost: How Much & Best Ways to Save

February 24, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

How Much Is a Dental Cleaning? Here’s What You Need to Know

A professional dental cleaning is one of the most important steps in preventing cavities, gum disease, and expensive dental treatments. But if you’re wondering, “How much is a dental cleaning?”, the answer depends on:

The type of cleaning you need (routine vs. deep cleaning)
Whether you have dental insurance
Additional services like X-rays or fluoride treatments

The good news? Cleanings can be affordable! Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need a flexible payment plan, there are cost-saving options available.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
The cost of a dental cleaning (with & without insurance)
The difference between routine and deep cleanings
Ways to save money on professional teeth cleanings
How to find affordable dental cleanings near you

And if you’re looking for discounted cleanings, check out The Patient Marketplace—a platform that connects you with dentists offering membership plans and flexible payment options.

Let’s break down the costs!


1. How Much Is a Cleaning?

The cost of a dental cleaning varies based on:
The type of cleaning needed (routine vs. deep cleaning)
Your location and dentist’s experience
Additional services (X-rays, fluoride, etc.)
Whether you have dental insurance

Average Cost of a Cleaning (Per Visit)

Type Cost Without Insurance
Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis) $75 – $200
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing Per Quadrant) $150 – $400
Full Mouth Deep Cleaning (All 4 Quadrants) $600 – $1,600
Fluoride Treatment (Optional) $20 – $50
X-Rays (If Needed) $25 – $250

Did you know? The more frequently you get cleanings, the less buildup you have, making future cleanings quicker, easier, and cheaper!


2. Routine vs. Deep Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Not all dental cleanings are the same. Some patients only need a routine cleaning, while others require a deep cleaning to treat gum disease.

Routine (Prophylaxis)

✔ Removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains
✔ Recommended every 6 months for healthy gums
✔ Prevents cavities, gum disease, and bad breath

Deep (Scaling & Root Planing)

✔ Treats early-stage gum disease (gingivitis & periodontitis)
✔ Involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque & bacteria
✔ May require multiple visits and local anesthesia

Not sure which cleaning you need? Your dentist will examine your gums and recommend the best treatment.


3. How to Save on a Cleanings With Insurance

If you have dental insurance, your plan likely covers some or all of the cost of a routine cleaning.

How Insurance Helps Lower Costs

Most plans cover 100% of routine cleanings (twice per year)
Deep cleanings are partially covered (50-80%) if gum disease is diagnosed
Preventive treatments (X-rays, fluoride) may be included
Choosing an in-network provider saves you more

Pro Tip: If your insurance only covers part of the cost, combining it with a membership plan can help reduce expenses even further.


4. How to Get an Affordable Care Without Insurance

If you don’t have dental insurance, getting a professional cleaning might seem expensive—but there are ways to reduce the cost.

Best Ways to Save on Cleanings Without Insurance

Find a Dental Membership Plan – Many dentists offer discounted cleanings through in-office membership programs.
Look for New Patient Specials – Some dental offices offer first-time discounts for new patients.
Visit a Dental School – Accredited dental schools provide low-cost cleanings under supervision.
Compare Prices at Different Dentists – Prices vary, so calling multiple offices can help you find the best deal.

Best Option: The most effective way to save money on dental cleanings is to join a dental membership plan, which provides instant discounts on preventive and restorative treatments.


5. The Secret to Affordable Cleanings: Membership Plans

What Is a Dental Membership Plan?

A dental membership plan is NOT insurance—it’s a low-cost savings program that provides discounted rates on cleanings, exams, and other treatments.

Instead of paying high monthly premiums for traditional insurance, you pay a small annual or monthly fee for instant savings at a participating dentist.

Benefits of a Membership Plan:

NO waiting periods, deductibles, or claim denials
FREE or discounted cleanings
20-50% off additional treatments
Perfect for uninsured patients or those looking for extra savings

How a Patient Saved $150 on a Dental Cleaning

Meet Jessica, a busy professional who needed a routine dental cleaning but was quoted $180—more than she expected.

A friend told her about The Patient Marketplace, where she found a dentist offering a membership plan.

For just $199 per year, Jessica received:
FREE cleanings and check-ups
40% off any additional treatments
Discounts on future procedures

Instead of paying $180 per visit, Jessica saved $150 on her cleaning—and now gets two free cleanings per year!

Want to see how much YOU could save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist offering membership plans near you.


6. Find an Affordable Dental Cleaning Near You

A dental cleaning is an essential part of preventive oral care, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need flexible payment options, you have affordable choices:

Best for insured patients: Use your benefits & visit an in-network dentist.
Best for uninsured patients: Look for dental schools, membership plans & cash discounts.
Best for major savings: Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.

Ready to book a budget-friendly dental cleaning? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a top-rated, affordable dentist near you!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is a dental cleaning without insurance?

Without insurance, a dental cleaning typically costs between $75 and $200, depending on location and services included.

Where can I find an affordable dental cleaning near me?

Visit The Patient Marketplace to find low-cost dental cleanings near you.

How often should I get a dental cleaning?

Most dentists recommend a check-up and cleaning every 6 months for optimal oral health.


Final Thoughts – Get an Affordable Dental Cleaning Today!

Ready to keep your smile healthy for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!

Save on Dental, Optometry & Wellness

Dental & vision insurance are not the best options if you want to truly save on dental work or vision care. Search our listings of vetted prctices that can help you save money!

Jordon Comstock

Author Bio

Jordon Comstock is the Founder & CEO of BoomCloud™, a software that allows practice, clinic & spa owners to build, manage and scale a membership program. Jordon loves helping patients save on care & writing tips in dentistry, optometry and the spa industries. Jordon is passionate about music, Hawaii, Healthcare businesses like: dentistry, optometry, med spas and massage spas.