Periodontal cleaning after care, if you’ve ever received a dental bill that made your jaw drop, you’re not alone. Dental care can be expensive, and even with insurance, the costs can pile up. But what if I told you there’s a way to save money on your dental visits, whether you have insurance or not?
The answer is simpler than you might think: in-office membership plans. These plans offer straightforward, discounted pricing without the confusion of traditional insurance. Today, we’re breaking down the best ways to save on dental costs, including how The Patient Marketplace can help you find an affordable provider.
Why Dental Care Is So Expensive
Dental procedures aren’t just about routine cleanings. Whether you need a periodontal cleaning after care, a root canal, or even a crown, costs can quickly add up. Here’s why dental care is pricey:
- Lack of Coverage – Most insurance plans have low annual limits, typically covering only $1,000-$2,000 per year.
- High Procedure Costs – A simple cleaning can range from $75-$200, while a root canal can cost over $1,000.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses – Even with insurance, deductibles and copays mean you’re still paying hundreds out of pocket.
How to Save on Dental Costs (With or Without Insurance)
1. Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits
If you have insurance, make sure you’re using it strategically:
- Get preventative care – Most plans cover 100% of cleanings and exams twice a year.
- Know your deductible and annual maximum – Once you reach your limit, you’ll be paying out of pocket.
- Check for in-network providers – Staying within the network can save you 20-50% per visit.
Pro Tip: Always ask your dentist for a pre-treatment estimate before major procedures. This can help you budget and avoid unexpected costs.
2. The Power of a Dental Membership Plan
Don’t have insurance? Or frustrated with your current plan? A membership plan can help you save 30-50% on dental care without the red tape.
With a membership plan, you get: ✅ Discounted services – No guessing about copays or deductibles.
✅ No waiting periods – Need treatment today? No problem.
✅ Transparent pricing – Know exactly what you’ll pay before treatment.
How to Find the Best Membership Plan
Platforms like The Patient Marketplace connect you with dental providers offering in-house membership plans. These plans often include:
- 2 cleanings per year
- Discounted periodontal cleaning after care
- 20-50% off common procedures
- Emergency exams at reduced rates
3. Negotiate Treatment Costs
If you don’t have insurance (or even if you do), you can often negotiate prices with your dentist. Here’s how:
- Ask for a cash discount – Many offices offer 10-20% off for upfront payments.
- Request a payment plan – Some dentists allow interest-free monthly payments.
- Bundle treatments – Scheduling multiple procedures at once can save you money.
Pro Tip: Always ask if there’s a more affordable alternative for expensive procedures. Sometimes, a different approach can save you hundreds of dollars.
4. Consider Dental Schools for Major Procedures
Dental schools provide high-quality care at reduced rates. These services are performed by students under the supervision of licensed professionals, making them a safe and affordable alternative.
5. Use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
If you have an HSA or FSA, you can pay for dental care tax-free. This can save you 20-30% depending on your tax bracket.
Real-Life Savings: A Patient’s Story
Meet Sarah, a busy professional who needed a periodontal cleaning after care but didn’t have insurance. Her estimated cost? $450 out of pocket.
She found a dentist through The Patient Marketplace offering a $299 per year membership that included:
- Two cleanings per year
- 30% off periodontal treatments
- Free emergency exams
Instead of paying $450, Sarah joined the plan and paid just $210 for her treatment—a savings of over $200.
Imagine what you could do with those savings.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Overpay for Dental Care
Whether you have insurance or not, you don’t have to overpay for your dental care.
✔ Use insurance strategically
✔ Explore a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace
✔ Negotiate costs and ask about discounts
✔ Look into dental schools for major procedures
✔ Leverage HSA/FSA accounts for tax-free savings
Ready to save on dental care? Find an affordable dentist today on The Patient Marketplace
