How Much Does a Dental Cleaning Cost?
Keeping up with regular dental cleanings is one of the best ways to prevent cavities, gum disease, and expensive dental work down the line.
But if you don’t have dental insurance, you might be wondering:
- How much does a dental cleaning cost?
- Why do prices vary so much?
- Are there affordable ways to get a cleaning without insurance?
The good news? You don’t have to overpay! In this guide, we’ll break down the average cost for dental cleaning, explain what affects the price, and show you how to save money—whether or not you have insurance.
Average Cost for Dental Cleaning
The cost of a professional dental cleaning depends on the type of cleaning you need.
Average Cost for a Dental Cleaning (Without Insurance)
| Type of Cleaning | Cost Range Per Visit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis) | $75 – $200 | Regular maintenance |
| Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) | $150 – $350 per quadrant | Gum disease treatment |
| Periodontal Maintenance | $125 – $300 | Patients with previous gum disease |
| Full-Mouth Debridement | $150 – $500 | Patients with severe plaque buildup |
Pro Tip: A routine cleaning is the most affordable and should be done every 6 months to avoid costly treatments later.
What Affects the Cost of a Dental Cleaning?
Several factors can influence how much you’ll pay for a cleaning:
✔ Type of Cleaning – A routine cleaning costs less than a deep cleaning.
✔ Location – Big cities often have higher dental costs than rural areas.
✔ Dentist’s Experience – Specialists charge more than general dentists.
✔ Gum Health – If you have gum disease, you may need a more intensive cleaning.
✔ Insurance Coverage – Some plans cover 100% of preventive cleanings.
Good news! Even if you don’t have insurance, there are ways to save—keep reading!
How to Save Money on Dental Cleaning (With or Without Insurance)
1. Use Dental Insurance (If Available)
Most dental insurance plans cover routine cleanings at 100%.
✅ Check Your Coverage – Many plans offer 2 free cleanings per year.
✅ Use Your Annual Benefits – Preventive care is often covered with no deductible.
✅ Choose an In-Network Dentist – Seeing an in-network provider ensures lower costs.
Tip: If insurance doesn’t cover enough, a dental membership plan may help you save even more!
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan offers instant savings on cleanings and other dental services—without dealing with insurance.
How It Works:
- Pay a low monthly or annual fee.
- Get 30–50% discounts on cleanings and treatments.
- No waiting periods, no claim denials—just instant savings.
Example Savings:
| Procedure | Without Membership | With Membership | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning | $150 | $80 | $70 |
| Deep Cleaning (Per Quadrant) | $300 | $180 | $120 |
Find a dentist offering membership discounts at ThePatientMarketplace.com.
3. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Cleanings
Many dental schools provide discounted cleanings as part of student training.
Potential Savings: 30-50% off traditional prices!
4. Search for Free or Low-Cost Dental Clinics
Some nonprofits, charities, or community clinics offer free or discounted cleanings.
Pro Tip: Search for local dental assistance programs in your area to find low-cost options.
5. Use a Payment Plan or Financing
If you need a cleaning but can’t afford the cost upfront, many dentists offer low-interest financing.
Popular Financing Options:
✔ CareCredit – Interest-free for 6-24 months
✔ LendingClub – Low-interest monthly payments
✔ In-House Payment Plans – Many dentists offer custom financing options
Example: Instead of paying $300 upfront, you can pay $25/month over 12 months.
A Real Success Story: How Lisa Saved $150 on a Dental Cleaning
Lisa, a 34-year-old mom, wanted to keep her teeth healthy but didn’t have dental insurance. When she saw a $180 price tag for a cleaning, she knew she needed a better deal.
Determined to find a more affordable option, she:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan, reducing her cost by 50%.
✔ Found a participating dentist on The Patient Marketplace.
Final cost? $90—saving her $90!
Lesson learned: With the right strategy, anyone can afford professional dental care!
Take Action: Get an Affordable Dental Cleaning Today
If you need a cleaning but don’t want to overpay, here’s what to do next:
✅ Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com to compare cleaning prices near you.
✅ Ask about a membership plan to save up to 50%.
✅ Apply for financing to break the cost into monthly payments.
A clean, healthy smile is an investment—start today!
FAQs About the Average Cost for Dental Cleaning
How much does a dental cleaning cost without insurance?
A routine cleaning costs between $75 and $200, while a deep cleaning can cost $150 to $350 per quadrant.
Does insurance cover dental cleanings?
Most dental insurance plans cover two routine cleanings per year at 100%.
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Dentists recommend every 6 months to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Are there cheaper alternatives to professional cleanings?
Not really—brushing and flossing help, but only a professional cleaning removes tartar buildup.
Can I finance a dental cleaning?
Yes! Many dentists offer 0% interest financing and affordable payment plans.
Final Thoughts: Get the Best Dental Cleaning Without Overpaying
Regular cleanings prevent expensive dental problems—and they don’t have to cost a fortune. With membership plans, financing, and discount providers, you can keep your smile healthy without breaking the bank.
Find affordable dental cleanings now at ThePatientMarketplace.com!
