How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Teeth Cleaned & How to Save on Dental Care
Regular dental cleanings are crucial for maintaining a healthy smile, preventing cavities, gum disease, and costly dental procedures. However, many people delay or avoid cleanings due to concerns about cost—especially if they don’t have insurance.
So, how much does it cost to get your teeth cleaned? The price varies depending on the type of cleaning, whether you have dental insurance, and where you go for treatment.
The good news? There are several affordable ways to get professional teeth cleanings, from dental insurance plansand membership programs to low-cost clinics and financing options.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The average cost of dental cleanings
✔ How insurance impacts pricing
✔ Affordable alternatives for those without insurance
✔ Real-world strategies to lower dental costs
How Much Does a Professional Teeth Cleaning Cost?
1. Average Cost of Dental Cleanings
The price of a dental cleaning depends on the type of cleaning needed. Some people only require a basic cleaning, while others with gum disease may need a deep cleaning.
| Type of Cleaning | Cost Without Insurance | Cost With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis) | $75 – $200 | $0 – $75 |
| Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) | $150 – $350 per quadrant | $50 – $150 per quadrant |
| Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning | $100 – $300 | $50 – $150 |
2. What Factors Affect the Cost?
Several factors impact how much you’ll pay for a professional dental cleaning:
✔ Type of Cleaning Needed – Routine cleanings are the least expensive, while deep cleanings cost more due to the extra time and effort involved.
✔ Dentist’s Location – Metropolitan areas tend to charge more than rural locations.
✔ Additional Services – Cleanings may require X-rays, fluoride treatments, or exams, adding to the total cost.
✔ Insurance Coverage – Many insurance plans fully cover two routine cleanings per year.
✔ Membership Plans – Dental discount plans can lower costs by up to 50%.
How to Save Money on Teeth Cleaning (With or Without Insurance)
1. Does Dental Insurance Cover Teeth Cleaning?
Yes! Most dental insurance plans cover two routine cleanings per year at 100%.
However, keep these key points in mind:
✔ Basic insurance plans cover cleanings but may not cover deep cleanings.
✔ Comprehensive plans may cover deep cleanings but with a co-pay.
✔ Waiting periods apply – Some plans require a 6-12 month wait before benefits kick in.
TIP: If you don’t have insurance, a dental membership plan can provide instant savings (more on this below!).
2. Join a Dental Membership Plan & Save 30-50%
If you don’t have insurance, dental membership plans can help you save big on routine cleanings and other procedures.
✅ Low monthly fees (starting at $10/month)
✅ Discounted rates on cleanings, X-rays, and exams
✅ No waiting periods or deductibles
Find a dentist offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace and start saving today!
3. Affordable Payment Plans for Dental Cleanings
If you can’t afford to pay upfront, many dentists offer financing options through:
- CareCredit – 0% interest if paid within 6-12 months.
- LendingClub – Flexible monthly installment options.
- Sunbit – Approves lower credit scores than most lenders.
TIP: Ask about in-house payment plans—many dentists offer no-interest financing for preventive care.
4. Low-Cost Dental Clinics & Free Cleanings
✔ Community Health Centers – Offer cleanings on a sliding scale based on income.
✔ Dental Schools – Supervised students perform low-cost or free cleanings.
✔ Nonprofit Clinics – Some offer free dental cleanings to qualifying individuals.
TIP: Search for “low-cost dental cleanings near me” to find affordable options.
How Susan Saved $200 on Her Dental Cleaning
Susan was overdue for a dental cleaning but didn’t have insurance. When she called a local dentist, they quoted her $180 for a routine cleaning—more than she could afford.
Instead of paying full price, Susan found a dentist through The Patient Marketplace offering a membership plan. This plan:
✔ Cut her cleaning cost to just $90
✔ Included two free exams per year
✔ Gave her discounts on future treatments
Susan’s simple membership plan saved her over $200 a year on cleanings alone!
FAQs About the Cost of Teeth Cleaning
How much does it cost to get your teeth cleaned without insurance?
A basic cleaning costs $75 – $200, while deep cleanings can cost $150 – $350 per quadrant.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
Most dentists recommend every 6 months for a routine cleaning. If you have gum disease, you may need more frequent visits.
Are deep cleanings worth the cost?
Yes! Deep cleanings remove bacteria that can cause tooth loss and serious infections.
Can I get a free teeth cleaning?
Some dental schools, community clinics, and nonprofit organizations offer low-cost or free cleanings.
What is the best way to save on dental cleanings?
✔ Use dental insurance – Most cover 2 cleanings per year for free.
✔ Join a membership plan – Save 30-50% on cleanings instantly.
✔ Look for dental school programs – They often offer low-cost care.
Final Thoughts: Are Teeth Cleanings Worth the Cost?
Absolutely! Regular cleanings prevent cavities, gum disease, and expensive dental work in the future.
Don’t overpay for your next cleaning!
Visit The Patient Marketplace to find affordable dentists offering membership plans today!
