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Scaling and root planing cost

If you’re ready for a fresher, brighter and cleaner smile, we have options available for you. Find out what a dental deep cleaning, or more commonly known as scaling and root planing, will cost. 

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How much does a dental deep cleaning cost?

Average cost is $315 per quadrant¹

If you’re experiencing gingivitis, gum disease (periodontitis), chronic bad breath or severe plaque on teeth, your dentist may prescribe a scaling and root planing procedure, also known as a dental deep cleaning. Schedule a checkup with your dentist for a tailored recommendation. 

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¹Price displayed is average price paid by patients nationwide for selected services. The average patient requires 2.5 quadrants of deep cleaning treatment.

What affects the cost of a dental deep cleaning?

The cost depends on a few factors: 

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Severity of procedure

If you have serious and aggressive conditions like periodontitis or gingivitis, the complexity of your case may require a more comprehensive periodontal treatment plan, which may include scaling and root planing. Consult with your dentist to find the best solution for you.

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Number of quadrants

The total cost of a deep cleaning treatment can fluctuate depending on the number of quadrants, or groups of teeth, that need attention. Each quadrant represents a quarter of the mouth, and the more quadrants requiring treatment, the higher the cost may be. 

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Location of dentist

Your local office’s location may impact the overall cost of your checkup. Office fee schedules can be affected by the cost of rent and utilities, which may be higher in urban areas vs. rural areas. Check with your office for more details. 

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Insurance or financing

The cost of your care depends on whether you have dental insurance and if you apply for financing. We have several insurance and financing options available at Aspen Dental. Learn more about dental financing and insurance.

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Cost with insurance

If you have dental insurance, coverage for deep cleaning may vary depending on your plan. Some insurance policies cover a portion of the cost, while others may require you to meet a deductible or pay a percentage of the expenses out-of-pocket. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any potential limitations. We do not accept Medicaid. 

Cost without insurance

The cost of deep cleaning without insurance may range from a couple hundred to over a thousand dollars per quadrant. This cost typically includes both scaling and root planing procedures (SRP). Aspen Dental offers different payment options and financing to patients without insurance including payment plans. 9 out of 10 patients get approved by our third-party lenders. 

Scaling and root planing cost FAQs

A dental deep cleaning's cost can vary depending on factors like location, the dental office's pricing, and whether the patient has insurance. The average price for a dental deep cleaning, which involves scaling and root planing, is $315 per quadrant³.

³Price displayed is average price paid by patients nationwide for selected services. The average patient requires 2.5 quadrants of deep cleaning treatment.

Yes, many dental insurance plans cover deep cleaning procedures, also known as scaling and root planing, as a preventive measure to treat gum disease. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific insurance plan and the severity of your condition. It's best to check with your dental insurance providers⁴ to understand your coverage details.

⁴Dental insurance providers accepted vary, based on Aspen Dental location.

Without insurance, patients may face a range of costs for teeth cleanings, from modest fees for regular routine cleanings to higher charges for scaling and root planing, especially if there's significant tartar buildup or gum disease. The exact cost can vary widely based on the patient's specific needs, the treatment needed and the dentist's rates.

Yes, you can refuse a dental deep cleaning at the dentist. However, it's important to consider the dentist's recommendation seriously. A dental deep cleaning like scaling and root planing is often prescribed to treat periodontal disease and prevent future dental issues. Refusing the procedure could lead to worsened dental health, including tooth loss and more severe infections.

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How much do dental deep cleanings cost?  

A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a thorough and intensive procedure aimed at treating gum disease and restoring oral health. Unlike a regular dental cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and just below the gumline, a deep cleaning targets the areas beneath the gums, where bacteria and plaque accumulate, leading to inflammation and gum recession.  

During a deep dental cleaning, the dentist will scale the teeth, which involves using a special tool to remove bacteria from above and below the gum line. The dentist will also flush the roots of the teeth with water or an antiseptic solution, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing. This procedure can be uncomfortable, but it is often very effective in treating gum disease and can be completed relatively quickly, depending on the condition's severity. 

 

When it comes to dental deep cleanings, the cost can vary depending on a few different factors. The first is whether you have dental insurance that may cover some or all of the cost. Many policies have an annual maximum, so check with your insurer or schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out how much coverage you have. 

  

Another factor that can affect the cost of your dental deep cleaning is the location of the dental office. Generally, dental offices in major metropolitan areas will charge more  than those in smaller towns or rural areas, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't find an office close to home. Many dental service providers, like Aspen Dental, offer a host of affordable cosmetic dentistry treatments, complete with financing options available. Finally though, the cost of your dental deep cleaning may also depend on the type of cleaning you need. 

 

A dental deep cleaning can be vital to maintaining good oral health and may help prevent more serious and expensive problems down the road. Schedule an appointment at your nearest Aspen Dental office today to learn how much this treatment may cost.