Introduction
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but dentist cleaning costs can vary widely. Whether you’re paying out of pocket or using insurance, understanding how much a professional cleaning costsand how to save money is crucial.
On average, a routine dental cleaning costs between $75 and $200 per visit. If you don’t have insurance, the cost can add up quickly, leading many to delay or skip their appointments—a decision that can lead to costly dental problems down the road.
The good news? You can reduce your dentist cleaning cost with membership plans, discount programs, and alternative payment options. In this guide, we’ll break down how much dentist cleanings cost, what factors affect pricing, and the best ways to save money on your dental care.
How Much Does a Dentist Cleaning Cost?
The cost of a dental cleaning depends on several factors, including your location, the type of cleaning needed, and whether you have insurance.
Average Dentist Cleaning Cost
| Type of Cleaning | Cost With Insurance | Cost Without Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Routine Cleaning (Adult) | $0 – $50 | $75 – $200 |
| Routine Cleaning (Child) | $0 – $40 | $50 – $150 |
| Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) | $100 – $300 per quadrant | $300 – $1,200 full mouth |
| Periodontal Maintenance | $100 – $250 | $150 – $350 |
Tip: Most dental insurance plans cover 100% of routine cleanings every 6 months.
Factors That Affect Dentist Cleaning Cost
✔ Type of Cleaning: A routine cleaning costs significantly less than a deep cleaning for gum disease.
✔ Dentist’s Location: Dental services tend to be more expensive in urban areas compared to rural regions.
✔ Insurance Coverage: Many insurance plans cover routine cleanings, but deep cleanings may only be partially covered.
✔ Additional Treatments: If you need X-rays, fluoride treatments, or sealants, your total cost may increase.
✔ Dentist’s Experience: A highly experienced dentist or specialist may charge higher fees than a general dentist.
How to Save on Dentist Cleaning Cost Without Insurance
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
If you don’t have insurance, an in-office dental membership plan can help you save up to 50% on cleanings and other treatments. These plans offer:
✔ Low monthly fees
✔ Discounted rates on preventive care
✔ No waiting periods or claim forms
Find a dentist offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace.
2. Use a Dental Discount Plan
Unlike traditional insurance, dental discount plans offer immediate savings on professional cleanings and other procedures.
✔ Routine cleanings
✔ Deep cleanings
✔ Periodontal maintenance
Many discount plans also include X-rays and fluoride treatments!
3. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing
If your cleaning requires deep scaling or periodontal therapy, many dentists offer payment plans to help spread out the cost.
Popular dental financing options include:
✔ CareCredit – 0% interest for 6-24 months
✔ LendingClub – Fixed, low-interest loans
✔ Proceed Finance – Extended payment options
Some dentists offer in-house financing with NO credit check!
4. Use a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
If you have an HSA or FSA, you can use pre-tax dollars to cover:
✔ Routine dental cleanings
✔ Scaling & root planing
✔ Preventive treatments like fluoride or sealants
Tip: FSAs have a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy—make sure to use your funds before they expire!
5. Visit a Low-Cost Dental Clinic
Community dental clinics and non-profit organizations often offer low-cost or free dental cleanings for qualifying patients.
Check HRSA.gov for local low-cost dental clinics.
How Insurance Affects Dentist Cleaning Cost
If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover most or all of the cost of routine cleanings.
✔ PPO Plans: Usually cover 100% of cleanings twice per year
✔ HMO Plans: Offer low-cost copays for cleanings
✔ Medicaid: Covers cleanings for eligible children and some adults
Check with your insurance provider for exact coverage details!
Real-Life Savings Story: How Brian Cut His Cleaning Cost in Half
Brian, a 35-year-old sales manager, was overdue for a dental cleaning but didn’t have insurance. He visited a local dentist and was quoted $180 for a routine cleaning and exam.
How Brian Saved Money:
✔ Joined a dental membership plan and paid only $80 for his cleaning
✔ Scheduled his next cleaning in advance to lock in savings
✔ Used his HSA account to cover the remaining balance
“Without a dental savings plan, I wouldn’t have been able to afford regular cleanings. Now, my teeth are healthier than ever!” – Brian
Want to save on dental cleanings? Visit The Patient Marketplace today!
Common Myths About Dentist Cleaning Costs
1. “Dental Cleanings Are Expensive Without Insurance”
Not necessarily! Many dentists offer discounts, membership plans, and financing to make cleanings affordable.
2. “You Only Need a Cleaning Once a Year”
False! Most dentists recommend cleanings every 6 months to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
3. “Deep Cleanings Are Only for Severe Cases”
Wrong! Many patients need scaling and root planing even if they don’t have advanced gum disease.
FAQs About Dentist Cleaning Cost
How much does a routine dental cleaning cost?
Without insurance, a routine cleaning typically costs $75 to $200.
Does dental insurance cover cleanings?
Most PPO insurance plans cover 100% of routine cleanings twice a year.
Can I finance my dental cleaning?
Yes! Many dentists offer 0% interest financing or in-house payment plans.
Are dental cleanings painful?
Routine cleanings are painless, but deep cleanings may cause mild discomfort.
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most people need a cleaning every 6 months, but those with gum disease may need cleanings every 3-4 months.
Final Thoughts
Dentist cleaning costs shouldn’t prevent you from maintaining your oral health. Whether you have insurance or not, there are many ways to save on professional cleanings—through membership plans, financing, and discount programs.
Ready to start saving on dental cleanings? Visit The Patient Marketplace today!
