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How Much Is a Periodontal Cleaning? Cost Breakdown & Affordable Solutions

February 24, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

How Much Is a Periodontal Cleaning? Here’s What You Need to Know

A periodontal cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a deep cleaning procedure that helps treat gum disease (periodontitis) by removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line.

If your dentist has recommended a periodontal cleaning, you’re likely wondering:

How much does a periodontal cleaning cost?
Will insurance cover it?
Are there ways to lower the cost?

The good news? There are affordable options available, whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need a flexible payment plan.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
The cost of a periodontal cleaning (with & without insurance)
What happens during the procedure
Ways to save money on gum disease treatment
How to find an affordable periodontal cleaning near you

And if you’re looking for discounted cleanings, check out The Patient Marketplace—a platform that connects you with dentists offering membership plans and flexible payment options.

Let’s break it all down!


1. How Much Is a Cleaning?

The cost of a periodontal cleaning depends on several factors, including:
The severity of your gum disease
The number of quadrants that need treatment
Whether additional treatments like antibiotics or laser therapy are required
Your dental insurance coverage

Average Cost (Per Quadrant & Full Mouth)

Procedure Cost Without Insurance
Scaling & Root Planing (Per Quadrant) $150 – $400
Full Mouth Periodontal Cleaning (All 4 Quadrants) $600 – $1,600
Antibiotic Therapy (If Needed) $35 – $90 per tooth
Laser Gum Treatment (Optional) $250 – $500 per quadrant

Did you know? If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and costly gum surgery, which can cost thousands of dollars!


2. How to Reduce Periodontal Costs With Insurance

If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover some or most of the cost of a periodontal cleaning.

How Insurance Can Lower Your Periodontal Cleaning Costs

Covers 50-80% of the cost for medically necessary deep cleanings
Requires a confirmed gum disease diagnosis (preventive cleanings may not be covered)
Annual maximums apply (typically $1,000 – $1,500 per year)
Pre-authorization may be required before treatment is approved

Pro Tip: Some insurance plans only cover a portion of the cost, so combining it with a membership plan can help you save even more.


3. How to Get an Affordable Periodontal Cleaning Without Insurance

If you don’t have dental insurance, getting a periodontal cleaning might seem expensive—but there are ways to lower the cost.

Best Ways to Save on Periodontal Cleaning Without Insurance

Find a Dental Membership Plan – Many dentists offer discounted deep cleanings through in-office membership programs.
Visit a Dental School – Dental schools provide low-cost cleanings under professional supervision.
Compare Prices at Different Dentists – Prices vary, so calling multiple offices can help you find the best deal.
Ask About Payment Plans – Many dental offices offer low-interest or no-interest financing options.

Best Option: The most effective way to save money on gum disease treatment is to join a dental membership plan, which provides instant discounts on deep cleanings.


4. The Secret to Affordable Periodontal Cleaning: Membership Plans

What Is a Dental Membership Plan?

A dental membership plan is NOT insurance—it’s a low-cost savings program that provides discounted rates on cleanings, exams, and other treatments.

Instead of paying high monthly premiums for traditional insurance, you pay a small annual or monthly fee for instant savings at a participating dentist.

Benefits of a Membership Plan:

NO waiting periods, deductibles, or claim rejections
20-50% off periodontal cleanings and other treatments
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Ideal for uninsured patients needing affordable gum care

How a Patient Saved $600 on a Periodontal Cleaning

Meet Daniel, a self-employed business owner who needed a full-mouth periodontal cleaning but was quoted $1,500—far more than he could afford.

A friend told him about The Patient Marketplace, where he found a dentist offering a membership plan.

For just $299 per year, Daniel saved:
40% off his periodontal cleaning
FREE check-ups and exams
Hundreds of dollars on future dental care

His total deep cleaning cost dropped to $900, saving him $600 instantly!

Want to see how much YOU could save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist offering membership plans near you.


5. Why Skipping a Periodontal Cleaning Can Cost You More

Avoiding deep cleanings due to cost concerns can lead to:

Advanced gum disease (requiring gum surgery, which costs thousands).
Tooth loss, leading to expensive implants or dentures.
Serious infections that can spread to other parts of the body.

Getting a periodontal cleaning now can save you thousands in future dental bills!


6. Find an Affordable Periodontal Cleaning Near You

A periodontal cleaning is essential for preventing gum disease and tooth loss, but it shouldn’t break the bank. Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need financing options, you have affordable choices:

Best for insured patients: Maximize benefits & choose an in-network provider.
Best for uninsured patients: Look for dental schools, membership plans & cash discounts.
Best for major savings: Join a membership plan through The Patient Marketplace.

Ready to get your periodontal cleaning at an affordable price? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a budget-friendly, top-rated dentist near you!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is a periodontal cleaning without insurance?

Without insurance, a deep periodontal cleaning costs between $600 and $1,600, depending on the severity of gum disease and the number of quadrants treated.

Is a periodontal cleaning painful?

Most patients experience mild discomfort, but dentists can use numbing gels or local anesthesia to minimize pain.

Where can I find an affordable periodontal cleaning near me?

Visit The Patient Marketplace to find low-cost periodontal cleaning options in your area.


Final Thoughts – Get an Affordable Periodontal Cleaning Today!

Ready to restore your gum health for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!

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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.