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The Shocking Truth About Teeth Cleaning Prices and Cost

February 23, 2025
Topics: Patients
Written by: Lisa Rasmussen

Ever wondered how much does a teeth cleaning costs? You’re not alone. Many people delay or skip routine dental cleanings because they fear the price tag. The problem? Neglecting your oral health now can lead to far more expensive treatments later.

But here’s the good news: There are ways to save on dental cleanings and how much does a teeth cleaning cost—even without insurance. Whether you have traditional dental coverage, use an in-office membership plan, or pay out of pocket, we’ll show you how to get the best dental care at the lowest cost.


How Much Does a Teeth Cleaning Cost?

Average Cost of a Teeth Cleaning

The cost of a dental cleaning varies based on location, dentist expertise, and whether X-rays or exams are included. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

  • Without insurance: $75 – $200 for a standard cleaning
  • With dental insurance: $0 – $50 (typically covered 100% under most plans)
  • Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing for gum disease): $150 – $350 per quadrant

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Some dental offices may charge additional fees for:

  • Dental exams: $50 – $100
  • X-rays: $25 – $250
  • Fluoride treatment: $20 – $50

If you’re not careful, what seems like a basic cleaning can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars.


How to Save on Teeth Cleanings (With or Without Insurance)

Option 1: Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Most dental insurance plans fully cover two routine cleanings per year. However, there are some things you should double-check on how much does a teeth cleaning cost:

  • Does your plan cover just the cleaning or also the exam and X-rays?
  • Do you need to see an in-network dentist for full coverage?
  • Are there any deductibles or copays?

Pro Tip: If you’re paying for dental insurance, use it! Skipping your covered cleanings means you’re leaving money on the table.


Option 2: Join an In-Office Membership Plan

Many dentists offer in-house dental membership plans that provide affordable preventive care without insurance. These plans often include:

  • Two free cleanings per year
  • Discounted treatments (15-30% off)
  • No deductibles, waiting periods, or coverage limits

Savings Example: Instead of paying $150 per cleaning, a $300/year membership could cover two cleanings, exams, and X-rays—saving you $200+ annually.

➡️ Find a dentist with a membership plan at The Patient Marketplace to save on your next cleaning.


Option 3: Take Advantage of Dental Discount Plans

A dental savings plan (not insurance) provides pre-negotiated discounts at participating dentists. You pay an annual fee ($100-$150) and save 10-60% on cleanings, fillings, crowns, and more.

Key Differences vs. Insurance:

  • No waiting periods, claim forms, or exclusions
  • Ideal if you don’t need major dental work but want discounts on routine care

Option 4: Visit a Dental School

Dental schools offer low-cost cleanings performed by supervised students. While it may take longer, the care is high quality and budget-friendly.

Estimated cost: $20 – $50 (up to 75% cheaper than private practice cleanings)


Option 5: Negotiate or Pay with Cash

If you’re paying out of pocket, ask your dentist about cash discounts or payment plans. Many offices offer reduced rates for uninsured patients.

Pro Tip: If you need multiple treatments, ask about bundling discounts. Some offices provide package deals when booking exams, X-rays, and cleanings together.


The Best Way to Save on Dental Care (Even Without Insurance)

Why In-Office Membership Plans Are a Game-Changer

For those without insurance, membership plans offer the best balance of savings and care quality. Unlike traditional insurance, they eliminate middlemen, making dental care more affordable.

Real-World Example: Meet Sarah Sarah, a freelancer without dental insurance, used to skip her routine cleanings to save money. After getting hit with a $1,200 bill for deep cleaning due to gum disease, she knew she had to find a better way.

She joined an in-office membership plan for $350/year, covering two cleanings, exams, and X-rays. Now, she saves hundreds of dollars yearly and avoids costly dental issues.


Act Now: Find an Affordable Dentist Near You

Don’t overpay for your next teeth cleaning. Explore your options today:

Have insurance? Use your benefits before they expire.
No insurance? Join an in-office membership plan to save big.
Need a dentist? Check out The Patient Marketplace to find one near you.

Click here to start saving on dental care today!

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.