How Much Is a Deep Cleaning? Everything You Need to Know
A deep dental cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a procedure used to treat gum disease (periodontitis)by removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning, you may be wondering:
✔ How much?
✔ Is it covered by insurance?
✔ Are there ways to lower the cost?
The good news? Deep cleanings don’t have to be expensive! Whether you have insurance, no insurance, or need a flexible payment plan, there are affordable solutions available.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The cost of a deep cleaning (with & without insurance)
✔ Why deep cleanings are needed
✔ Ways to save money on gum disease treatment
✔ How to find affordable deep cleanings near you
And if you’re looking for discounted deep 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?
The cost varies based on:
✔ The severity of gum disease
✔ The number of quadrants that need treatment (your mouth is divided into four sections)
✔ Whether additional treatments like antibiotics or laser therapy are required
✔ Your dental insurance coverage
Average Cost of a Cleaning (Per Quadrant & Full Mouth)
| Procedure | Cost Without Insurance |
|---|---|
| Scaling & Root Planing (Per Quadrant) | $150 – $400 |
| Full Mouth Deep 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 progresses beyond the need for a deep cleaning, it may require surgical intervention, which costs thousands more!
2. Why Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?
Unlike regular dental cleanings, which focus on removing surface plaque and tartar, a deep cleaning is necessary when bacteria build up below the gum line, causing:
Bleeding gums
Gum recession
Persistent bad breath
Loose teeth
If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and infections that affect your overall health.
Not sure if you need a cleaning? Your dentist will check for pockets between your gums and teeth—if they measure 4mm or deeper, a deep cleaning is usually recommended.
3. How to Reduce Costs With Insurance
If you have dental insurance, your plan may cover some or most of the cost of a deep cleaning.
How Insurance Can Lower Your 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 part of the cost, so combining it with a membership plan can help you save even more.
4. How to Get an Affordable Dental Care Without Insurance
If you don’t have insurance, getting a deep cleaning might seem expensive—but there are ways to reduce the cost.
Best Ways to Save Without Insurance
✔ Find a Dental Membership Plan – Many dentists offer discounted deep cleanings through in-office membership programs.
✔ Visit a Dental School – Accredited dental schools provide low-cost deep 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.
5. The Secret to Affordable Cleanings: 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 deep 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 deep cleanings and other treatments
✔ Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
✔ Ideal for uninsured patients needing affordable gum care
How a Patient Saved $600 On Their Dental Care
Meet Lisa, a freelance writer who needed a full-mouth deep cleaning but was quoted $1,500—far more than she expected.
A friend told her about The Patient Marketplace, where she found a dentist offering a membership plan.
For just $299 per year, Lisa saved:
✔ 40% off her deep cleaning
✔ FREE check-ups and exams
✔ Hundreds of dollars on future dental care
Her total deep cleaning cost dropped to $900, saving her $600 instantly!
Want to see how much YOU could save? Visit The Patient Marketplace to find a dentist offering membership plans near you.
6. Find an Affordable Membership Plans Near You
A deep 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 deep 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 without insurance?
Without insurance, this dental service costs between $600 and $1,600, depending on the severity of gum disease and the number of quadrants treated.
Is it painful?
Most patients experience mild discomfort, but dentists can use numbing gels or local anesthesia to minimize pain.
Where can I find an affordable dental practices near me?
Visit The Patient Marketplace to find low-cost dental care options in your area.
Final Thoughts – Get an Affordable Cleaning Today!
Ready to restore your gum health for less? Visit The Patient Marketplace now and start saving today!
