Is the Cost of Deep Cleaning Teeth Too High? Here’s How to Make It Affordable
If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning, you may be wondering:
How much does a deep cleaning cost?
Is it really necessary?
How can I lower my out-of-pocket expenses?
Deep cleaning (also called scaling and root planing) is essential for treating gum disease, preventing infections, and protecting your teeth from future decay. But it can also be expensive, costing between $150 to $350 per quadrant—or $600 to $1,400 for a full mouth.
The good news? There are ways to reduce the cost of deep cleaning—even if you don’t have insurance.
This guide will break down the cost of deep cleaning teeth, what’s covered by insurance, and how to save hundreds on this essential treatment.
What Is a Deep Cleaning & Why Do You Need It?
A deep dental cleaning goes beyond a routine cleaning by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
Dentists recommend deep cleaning when patients show signs of gum disease, such as:
✔ Bleeding gums
✔ Receding gums
✔ Bad breath
✔ Loose teeth
Without treatment, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, leading to bone loss, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues like heart disease.
Getting a deep cleaning early can prevent costly and painful dental procedures down the road.
How Much Does Deep Cleaning Teeth Cost?
The cost of deep cleaning teeth depends on how many quadrants need treatment, the dentist’s expertise, and your location.
Average Cost of Deep Cleaning Per Quadrant:
✔ With insurance: $75 – $150 per quadrant
✔ Without insurance: $150 – $350 per quadrant
✔ Full-mouth deep cleaning: $600 – $1,400
If you need all four quadrants cleaned, the total price can be high—but don’t worry, there are ways to save.
Does Insurance Cover Deep Cleaning?
Most dental insurance plans cover deep cleaning at 50-80%, but coverage depends on:
✔ Your deductible – Some plans require you to pay a portion first.
✔ Annual maximums – Many policies cap benefits at $1,000 to $2,000 per year.
✔ Periodontal coverage – Some policies classify deep cleaning as periodontal treatment, which may limit coverage.
Even if your insurance covers part of the cost, you may still have a balance—but there are ways to lower that amount.
How to Get an Affordable Deep Cleaning Without Overpaying
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
If you don’t have insurance or your insurance doesn’t cover deep cleaning, a dental membership plan can save you 30-60% off treatment costs.
Example Savings With a Membership Plan:
✅ Full-mouth deep cleaning: $1,200 → $750 (40% off)
✅ Per quadrant cost: $300 → $180 (40% off)
✔ Low annual/monthly fee ($150-$400/year)
✔ Discounts on deep cleanings, exams, and routine cleanings
✔ No waiting periods, claim rejections, or hidden fees
➡ Find dentists offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Compare Prices at Different Dental Clinics
Not all dentists charge the same for deep cleanings. Some affordable dental centers offer lower-cost treatment options and payment plans.
How to save:
✔ Get multiple price quotes before committing
✔ Ask about cash-pay discounts (some dentists offer 10-20% off)
✔ Look for transparent pricing with no hidden fees
➡ Find affordable dentists near you at The Patient Marketplace.
3. Use a Dental Discount Plan
Unlike insurance, dental discount plans allow you to pay a small annual fee and get pre-negotiated discounts on deep cleanings and other treatments.
Savings: 15-60% off deep cleanings and other procedures
No waiting periods, approvals, or claim forms
Accepted at thousands of participating dentists
These plans can save you hundreds of dollars per year on major treatments.
4. Visit a Dental School for a Low-Cost Deep Cleaning
Dental schools train future dentists and offer low-cost deep cleanings under the supervision of licensed professionals.
✔ 50-70% lower cost than private dental offices
✔ High-quality materials and professional oversight
✔ Takes longer than traditional visits, but massive savings
Check accredited dental schools near you for affordable options.
5. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing
If you can’t afford to pay for your deep cleaning upfront, many dentists offer monthly payment plans to make treatment more manageable.
CareCredit & LendingClub – 0% financing available for qualified applicants
In-house payment plans – Monthly payments with no interest
Third-party lenders – Low-interest loans for dental work
➡ Find financing-friendly dentists on The Patient Marketplace.
Real Patient Story: How Sarah Saved Over $600 on Her Deep Cleaning
Sarah, a 38-year-old small business owner, needed a full-mouth deep cleaning due to early-stage gum disease. Her dentist quoted her $1,200, which was out of her budget.
Solution? She found an affordable dental provider through The Patient Marketplace, which offered:
✔ A membership plan with a 40% discount
✔ A financing plan with $99/month payments
✔ Original cost: $1,200
✔ Discounted cost with membership: $750
✔ Total savings: $600+
➡ Now, Sarah has healthier gums and avoided costly future procedures!
Like Sarah, you can find an affordable deep cleaning by choosing the right provider and membership plan!
Where to Find Affordable Deep Cleaning Near You
Need a deep cleaning but don’t want to overpay? The Patient Marketplace connects you with affordable dental providers, membership plans, and financing options.
✅ Compare pricing & find trusted dentists
✅ Save 30-60% on your deep cleaning
✅ Find flexible payment plans that fit your budget
➡ Click here to explore affordable deep cleaning options now!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of Deep Cleaning Teeth
Q: How much does deep cleaning cost per quadrant?
The cost ranges from $150 to $350 per quadrant, depending on the dentist and location.
Q: Can I finance my deep cleaning?
Yes! Many dentists offer monthly payment plans, and services like CareCredit provide 0% financing for qualified applicants.
Q: How can I save money on a deep cleaning?
✔ Use a dental membership plan (save 30-60%)
✔ Choose an in-network dentist
✔ Use an FSA or HSA account
✔ Ask about financing or payment plans
Q: Where can I find an affordable dentist for a deep cleaning?
Visit The Patient Marketplace to compare affordable dental providers near you.
