If you’ve ever been surprised by a hefty dental bill, you’re not alone. Periodontal cleaning, also known as deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, is a necessary treatment for gum disease but can be expensive—especially if you don’t have insurance.

But here’s the good news: there are ways to save significantly on your periodontal cleaning costs, whether you have insurance, no insurance, or a membership plan.

In this guide, we’ll break down the real cost of periodontal cleaning and explore smart ways to reduce your dental expenses—including a little-known strategy that could cut your costs dramatically.

What is Periodontal Cleaning and Why is It So Expensive?

A periodontal cleaning goes beyond a regular dental cleaning. It involves:

• Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line
• Root planing: Smoothing out root surfaces to prevent bacteria from reattaching

Because it requires specialized equipment and skilled dental professionals, periodontal cleaning costs can be much higher than a standard cleaning.

Average Cost of Periodontal Cleaning

Here’s what you can expect to pay depending on your situation:

Did you know? Many people skip periodontal cleaning due to cost, but untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and expensive restorative treatments like implants.

How to Save on Periodontal Cleaning Costs

1. Use Dental Insurance Wisely

If you have dental insurance, you can reduce your out-of-pocket costs significantly. Here’s how to maximize your benefits:

• Check if your plan covers scaling and root planing (many cover 50-80% of the cost).
• Use in-network dentists to save 20-40% off the listed price.
• Split treatments across two calendar years to double your insurance coverage.

Pro Tip: Some insurance companies require proof of gum disease before covering deep cleanings. Make sure your dentist provides necessary documentation.

2. Join an In-Office Membership Plan

One of the best-kept secrets in affordable dental care is dental membership plans. Unlike insurance, these are directly offered by dental offices and provide: ✅ Flat, predictable pricing
✅ No deductibles or waiting periods
✅ Discounts of 25-50% on cleanings, exams, and other treatments

Example: A patient who needed full-mouth periodontal cleaning saved $500+ by signing up for a $150/year membership plan at their local dentist.

Find a membership plan near you: The Patient Marketplace connects patients with dentists offering discounted in-office plans.

3. Look for Low-Cost or Sliding Scale Clinics

If affordability is your biggest concern, look for:

• Dental schools : Get treatment from supervised students at 50-70% lower costs.
• Community health clinics : Some offer free or low-cost cleanings based on income.
• Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) : These provide sliding-scale dental care.

4. Consider Dental Discount Plans

A dental savings plan is not insurance, but it provides instant discounts (10-60%) on treatments when you visit a participating dentist.
Popular discount plans:

• Careington
• Aetna Dental Savings Plan
• DentalPlans.com

Unlike insurance, there’s no waiting period, making it a great option for immediate savings.

5. Pay Smart: Negotiate & Use Flexible Spending Accounts

• Ask for a cash discount: Some dental offices offer 5-15% off if you pay upfront.
• Negotiate payment plans: Many dentists allow interest-free monthly installments.
• Use HSA/FSA funds: Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) let you use pre-tax dollars, effectively reducing your bill by 20-30%.

The Best Way to Save? Combine Multiple Strategies

Want to cut your periodontal cleaning cost as much as possible? Layer your savings methods: 1️⃣ Use dental insurance (if available)
2️⃣ Join an in-office membership plan for deeper discounts
3️⃣ Negotiate cash discounts or payment plans
4️⃣ Use a dental discount plan if insurance isn’t available
5️⃣ Consider treatment at dental schools or community clinics

Take Action: Find Affordable Dental Care Today

Don’t let high costs stop you from getting the care you need. Take control of your dental expenses today: ✔ Check if your insurance covers periodontal cleaning
✔ Search for a dental membership plan on The Patient Marketplace
✔ Compare dental discount plans for instant savings

Your smile and your wallet will thank you!