Educating Patients & Connecting Them to Membership Plans.

Deep Cleaning Dental Cost: What You Need to Know & How to Save Money

April 28, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

Affordable Solutions for Scaling and Root Planing Without Overspending

Concerned About Deep Cleaning Dental Costs? You’re Not Alone

If your dentist has recommended a deep dental cleaning, you may be wondering:

  • What exactly is a deep cleaning?
  • Why is it so expensive?
  • Are there affordable options for treatment?

A deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline. It’s a critical treatment for gum disease, but it can be costly—ranging from $150 to $400 per quadrant (one-fourth of your mouth).

The good news? There are ways to lower your deep cleaning dental cost. Whether you have insurance or not, you can save through membership plans, dental schools, and financing options.


How Much Does a Deep Dental Cleaning Cost?

Several factors affect the cost of a deep cleaning, including:
✔️ Severity of Gum Disease – More severe cases require additional treatment.
✔️ Number of Quadrants Treated – Full-mouth cleaning costs more.
✔️ Dentist’s Location – Prices vary by city and state.
✔️ Insurance Coverage – Some plans cover a portion of the cost.

Breakdown of Deep Cleaning Dental Costs

Treatment Type Average Cost Without Insurance Cost With Insurance (50% Coverage)
Scaling & Root Planing (1 Quadrant) $150 – $400 $75 – $200
Full Mouth Deep Cleaning (4 Quadrants) $600 – $1,600 $300 – $800
Periodontal Maintenance (After Treatment) $100 – $300 per visit $50 – $150 per visit
Antibiotic Treatment (If Needed) $35 – $85 per tooth $17 – $42 per tooth

Additional Costs to Consider

Dental X-rays ($25 – $200) – Required for diagnosing gum disease.
Local Anesthesia ($50 – $200) – If numbing is needed for the procedure.
Follow-Up Visits ($100 – $300 per visit) – Essential for monitoring gum health.


How to Save on Deep Cleaning Dental Costs

If deep cleaning costs seem too high, here are affordable alternatives to help you get the care you need without breaking the bank:

1. Join a Dental Membership Plan

A dental membership plan is a cost-effective alternative to traditional insurance. These low-cost in-office plans allow patients to pay a small monthly fee in exchange for discounted dental cleanings, exams, and treatments.

No waiting periods or deductibles.
Instant savings of 20-50% on deep cleanings.
No annual maximum—use it whenever needed.

Example: John needed a full-mouth deep cleaning costing $1,200. By enrolling in a membership plan, he saved 40%, lowering his bill to $720.

Find affordable deep cleanings at The Patient Marketplace.


2. Visit a Dental School for Low-Cost Treatment

Dental schools offer discounted deep cleanings, performed by students under licensed supervision. These treatments provide high-quality care at 50% lower prices than private clinics.


3. Consider a Dental Discount Plan

A dental discount plan allows you to pay an annual fee to access reduced pricing on treatments, including deep cleanings. These plans typically offer 10-60% discounts on procedures.


4. Compare Prices Between Dentists

Not all dentists charge the same. Calling multiple dental offices for quotes can save you hundreds of dollars. Some clinics offer new patient specials or cash discounts.


5. Look for Community Health Clinics

Many community health clinics offer low-cost or free deep cleanings to low-income individuals. Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) provide affordable periodontal care based on income level.


6. Use an HSA or FSA to Pay for Treatment

A Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) allows you to use pre-tax dollars to cover deep cleaning costs, reducing your overall expense.


7. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing Options

Many dentists offer payment plans or financing through CareCredit, allowing you to pay for deep cleanings in small, manageable installments.


Is a Deep Cleaning Worth the Cost?

Ignoring gum disease can lead to:
Tooth loss due to untreated infections.
Bone deterioration in the jaw.
Higher treatment costs in the future.

Investing in deep cleaning now can save you from costly dental procedures later.


Find Affordable Deep Cleaning Dental Costs 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 much does a deep cleaning dental cost?

A deep cleaning costs between $150 and $400 per quadrant, with full-mouth treatment ranging from $600 to $1,600.

Can I get a free deep cleaning?

Some community health clinics and dental schools offer low-cost or free cleanings for qualifying individuals.

What is the cheapest way to get a deep dental cleaning?

✔️ Join a dental membership plan
✔️ Visit a dental school offering periodontal treatments
✔️ Look for dental discount programs

How often should I get a deep cleaning?

Dentists recommend deep cleanings every 3-6 months for patients with gum disease.

Can I pay for a deep cleaning in installments?

Yes! Many dental offices offer payment plans or financing to make deep cleanings more affordable.


Final Thoughts

A deep dental cleaning is essential for maintaining healthy gums, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. By using membership plans, discount programs, and low-cost dental options, you can find affordable deep cleaning dental costs and protect your oral health.

Looking for budget-friendly deep cleanings? Find a trusted provider today at The Patient Marketplace!


Inbound Links:

Outbound Links:

Save on Dental, Optometry & Wellness

Dental & vision insurance are not the best options if you want to truly save on dental work or vision care. Search our listings of vetted prctices that can help you save money!

Jordon Comstock

Author Bio

Jordon Comstock is the Founder & CEO of BoomCloud™, a software that allows practice, clinic & spa owners to build, manage and scale a membership program. Jordon loves helping patients save on care & writing tips in dentistry, optometry and the spa industries. Jordon is passionate about music, Hawaii, Healthcare businesses like: dentistry, optometry, med spas and massage spas.