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How to Save on the Cost of Dental Cleaning Without Insurance

February 23, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Ally Comstock

Worried About the Cost of a Dental Cleaning Without Insurance? You’re Not Alone

If you don’t have dental insurance, getting a professional dental cleaning might seem expensive. You may be wondering:

How much does a dental cleaning cost without insurance?
Is there a way to get a cleaning at a lower price?
How can I keep my teeth healthy without overspending?

Regular dental cleanings are crucial for preventing cavities, gum disease, and expensive dental treatments in the future. However, without insurance, the price can range from $75 to $300 per visit—and deep cleanings cost even more.

The good news? There are several ways to get an affordable dental cleaning—even without insurance.

This guide will break down the cost of a dental cleaning without insurance and how you can save money on essential oral care.


How Much Does a Dental Cleaning Cost Without Insurance?

The cost of a dental cleaning varies depending on your location, the type of cleaning needed, and the dentist you choose.

Average Cost of a Dental Cleaning Without Insurance

Basic Routine Cleaning – $75 to $200
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) – $150 to $350 per quadrant ($600 – $1,400 for full mouth)
Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning – $150 to $300
Fluoride Treatment (if needed) – $20 to $50

The price can increase if you need X-rays, deep cleaning, or other treatments—but don’t worry, there are ways to save!


Why Are Dental Cleanings Important?

Skipping dental cleanings can lead to serious oral health problems, including:

Plaque & Tartar Buildup – Leads to cavities and gum disease.
Gingivitis & Gum Disease – Can cause tooth loss if untreated.
Expensive Procedures Later – Skipping cleanings can result in needing costly root canals or extractions.

Investing in regular cleanings now will save you thousands of dollars on future dental work.


How to Get an Affordable Dental Cleaning Without Insurance

1. Join a Dental Membership Plan

Many dentists offer in-office membership plans that provide huge discounts on cleanings, exams, and other treatments—without insurance.

Example Savings With a Membership Plan:
Routine Cleaning & Exam: $150 → $0 (Included in Plan)
Deep Cleaning: $1,000 → $600 (40% Off)
X-rays & Fluoride Treatment: Discounted or Free

Low annual or monthly fee ($150-$400/year)
Discounts on cleanings, fillings, and crowns
No waiting periods, deductibles, or claim denials

Find dentists offering membership plans at The Patient Marketplace.


2. Visit an Affordable Dental Center

Certain low-cost dental clinics specialize in providing quality cleanings at reduced prices for patients without insurance.

Look for:
Flat-rate cleanings with no hidden fees
Community dental clinics offering low-cost care
Flexible payment plans for uninsured patients

Search for affordable dental centers at The Patient Marketplace.


3. Use a Dental Discount Plan

Unlike insurance, dental discount plans allow you to pay a small fee for access to pre-negotiated discounts on cleanings, exams, and treatments.

Savings: 15-60% off dental cleanings and procedures
No waiting periods, deductibles, or paperwork
Accepted at thousands of participating dentists

These plans can help you save hundreds of dollars per year on preventive care.


4. Check for Free or Low-Cost Dental Programs

Some dental schools and nonprofit clinics offer free or low-cost dental cleanings for uninsured patients.

Dental Hygiene Schools – Provide cleanings at 50-70% lower costs, performed by students under expert supervision.
Nonprofit Organizations – Programs like Mission of Mercy or local health departments provide low-cost or free cleanings.

Search for dental schools in your area to find discounted or free cleanings.


5. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing

If you can’t afford to pay for your cleaning upfront, many dentists offer monthly payment plans to make it more manageable.

CareCredit & LendingClub – 0% financing available for qualified applicants
In-house payment plans – Monthly payments with no interest
Third-party lenders – Low-interest loans for dental procedures

Find financing-friendly dentists on The Patient Marketplace.


Real Patient Story: How Mark Saved Over $300 on His Dental Cleaning

Mark, a 35-year-old freelancer, hadn’t seen a dentist in years because he didn’t have insurance. When he finally went, he needed a deep cleaning, which was quoted at $1,000.

Solution? He found an affordable dental provider through The Patient Marketplace that offered:
A membership plan with free routine cleanings
40% off deep cleanings
A financing plan with $50/month payments

Original cost: $1,000
Discounted cost with membership: $600
Total savings: $400+

Now, Mark maintains his cleanings regularly and avoids costly dental problems.

Like Mark, you can find an affordable dental cleaning by choosing the right provider and payment plan!


Where to Find an Affordable Dental Cleaning Without Insurance

Need a professional dental cleaning but don’t want to overpay? The Patient Marketplace connects you with affordable dentists, membership plans, and financing options.

Compare pricing & find trusted dentists
Save 30-60% on your dental cleaning
Find flexible payment plans that fit your budget

Click here to explore affordable dental cleaning options now!


Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of Dental Cleaning Without Insurance

Q: How much does a dental cleaning cost without insurance?

The cost ranges from $75 to $200 for a routine cleaning and $150 to $350 per quadrant for a deep cleaning.

Q: Can I get a free dental cleaning without insurance?

Yes! Dental schools, community health programs, and nonprofit clinics often provide low-cost or free cleanings for uninsured patients.

Q: What’s the best way to save money on dental cleanings?

Join a dental membership plan (save 30-60%)
Visit an affordable dental center
Use a dental discount plan
Check for free or low-cost programs

Q: Where can I find an affordable dentist for a cleaning?

Visit The Patient Marketplace to compare affordable dental providers near you.

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.