The Best Way to Prevent Gum Disease and Restore Oral Health
Worried About Gum Disease? A Deep Cleaning Teeth Procedure Can Help
Do you have bleeding gums, bad breath, or tartar buildup that won’t go away? These are early warning signs of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to:
- Gum recession and tooth loss
- Painful infections and swelling
- Expensive dental procedures in the future
A deep cleaning teeth procedure, also known as scaling and root planing, is a preventative treatment that removes plaque and bacteria below the gumline—helping stop gum disease before it worsens.
The best part? Affordable options exist to make deep cleanings accessible, even if you don’t have insurance. Keep reading to learn how deep cleaning works, how much it costs, and how to save money on treatment!
What Is a Deep Cleaning Teeth Procedure?
A deep dental cleaning is a specialized periodontal treatment designed to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. Unlike a regular cleaning, which focuses on the surface of the teeth, a deep cleaning targets the roots and pockets around the gums.
Recommended For: Patients with gingivitis or early-stage gum disease
Duration: 1-2 visits (each lasting 60-90 minutes)
Pain Level: Mild discomfort (local anesthesia or numbing gel is used)
Step-by-Step Guide to the Deep Cleaning Teeth Procedure
1. Dental Examination & X-Rays
Before starting the procedure, your dentist or periodontist will:
✔️ Examine your gums and teeth for signs of infection.
✔️ Take X-rays to assess the severity of plaque buildup.
✔️ Measure gum pocket depth to determine the extent of gum disease.
2. Scaling (Removing Plaque & Tartar Below the Gumline)
Once diagnosed, the scaling process begins:
✔️ A specialized dental tool scrapes off plaque and tartar buildup below the gums.
✔️ If buildup is severe, an ultrasonic scaler is used to break up hardened tartar.
✔️ The goal is to eliminate bacteria that cause inflammation and infection.
3. Root Planing (Smoothing the Tooth Roots)
After scaling, the roots of the teeth are smoothed:
✔️ This prevents bacteria from reattaching.
✔️ It helps the gums reattach to the teeth and shrink deep pockets.
✔️ Root planing reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
4. Antibiotic Therapy (If Needed)
For patients with advanced gum infections, the dentist may apply localized antibiotics:
✔️ Antibacterial gels or rinses are placed in gum pockets.
✔️ Helps eliminate remaining bacteria and speeds up healing.
5. Follow-Up Appointments & Aftercare
Your dentist will schedule follow-up cleanings every 3-6 months to:
✔️ Monitor gum health and prevent further buildup.
✔️ Ensure that gum pockets are shrinking.
✔️ Reinforce proper at-home oral care habits.
Before and After Deep Cleaning Teeth Results (Insert images showing improvements in gum health)
How Much Does a Deep Cleaning Teeth Procedure Cost?
Several factors impact the price of deep cleaning, including:
✔️ Severity of gum disease – More severe cases require additional visits.
✔️ Number of quadrants treated – The mouth is divided into four sections, and treatment is priced per quadrant.
✔️ Dentist’s location – Costs vary by region.
✔️ Insurance coverage or discount plans – Some plans cover 50-80% of the cost.
Deep Cleaning Teeth Cost Breakdown
| Treatment Type | Average Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance (50% Coverage) |
|---|---|---|
| Scaling & Root Planing (Per Quadrant) | $150 – $400 | $75 – $200 |
| Full Mouth Deep Cleaning (4 Quadrants) | $600 – $1,600 | $300 – $800 |
| Periodontal Maintenance (Aftercare Cleaning) | $100 – $300 per visit | $50 – $150 per visit |
| Antibiotic Therapy (Per Tooth, If Needed) | $35 – $85 | $17 – $42 |
Tip: Deep cleaning is a one-time investment in your oral health, preventing expensive future procedures like gum surgery or tooth extractions.
How to Save on a Deep Cleaning Teeth Procedure
If the cost of a deep cleaning seems overwhelming, here’s how to cut costs and still get the treatment you need:
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan is an affordable alternative to insurance, offering discounted rates on deep cleanings and other treatments.
✅ No waiting periods or deductibles.
✅ Instant savings of 20-50% on deep cleanings.
✅ No annual maximum—use it whenever needed.
Example: Lisa needed a full-mouth deep cleaning that cost $1,200. Thanks to her membership plan, she saved 40%, reducing her bill to $720.
Find affordable deep cleaning at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Treatment
Dental schools offer low-cost deep cleanings, performed by students under professional supervision. These treatments provide high-quality care at 50% lower prices than private clinics.
3. Compare Prices Between Dentists
Not all dentists charge the same! Calling multiple offices and requesting price quotes can save hundreds of dollars. Some clinics offer new patient specials or cash discounts.
4. Use an HSA or FSA to Cover Costs
A Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows you to use pre-tax dollars to pay for deep cleaning costs, reducing your overall expense.
5. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing Options
Many dentists offer interest-free financing, allowing you to pay for deep cleanings in small, manageable monthly installments.
Find Affordable Deep Cleaning Treatment Through The Patient Marketplace
If you’re searching for affordable deep cleanings, visit The Patient Marketplace to find budget-friendly dental providers offering:
✔️ Discounted membership plans.
✔️ Flexible financing options.
✔️ Affordable, high-quality periodontal care.
FAQs
How often should I get a deep cleaning?
Dentists recommend every 3-6 months if you have gum disease.
Is deep cleaning painful?
Mild discomfort is normal, but local anesthesia or numbing gel makes it manageable.
Can deep cleaning reverse gum disease?
It can stop gum disease from worsening, but it won’t regrow lost bone or tissue.
How long does a deep cleaning last?
Results last several months, depending on proper oral hygiene and follow-up care.
Can I pay for deep cleaning in installments?
Yes! Many dentists offer payment plans or financing options.
