How much do dental cleanings cost?
Jessica Levco
November 27, 2024
Everything You Need to Know About Dental Cleaning Costs
Routine dental cleanings take less than an hour and are essential to maintaining optimal oral health, Cleveland Clinic says. During a cleaning, a dental hygienist will clean, polish and floss your teeth. This process helps remove hardened plaque, tartar and bacteria that can harm your gums and lead to cavities, Cleveland Clinic says.
There are benefits to routine dental cleanings, Cleveland Clinic says, including:
Reduced risk: Cleanings help prevent cavities and gum disease.
Improved whole-body health: Healthcare providers recognize the link between oral health and whole-body health. Routine cleanings can help reduce your risk for heart disease, stroke and dementia.
Bad breath prevention: Routine cleanings remove harmful hardened plaque and tartar that can cause bad breath.
Lower cost: Routine care can help stop oral issues before they start.
When combined with brushing and flossing at home, dental cleanings help achieve and maintain healthy teeth and gums, the American Dental Association advises.
We want to make teeth cleaning affordable for everyone. That’s why with your Altogether Dental membership, you can get 15-50% off all dental procedures — unlimited usage; throughout the year. Every dental procedure is included with membership, including routine cleanings, fillings, X-rays, crowns, orthodontia, cosmetic procedures (whitening and veneers), braces, major dental procedures (like root canals) and so much more.
No insurance? What is the average cost of dental cleaning?
The average cost of dental cleaning without insurance varies based on factors such as location, the dentist's experience and the type of cleaning required. On average, routine dental cleaning costs for adults in the U.S. range from $75 to $200, with an average cost of around $125, Healthline reports.
Can you pay for teeth cleaning out of pocket?
Yes, you can pay for routine or any dental care out of pocket. If you’re wondering how much is a teeth cleaning out of pocket, the average cost is $130. However, Altogether Dental members enjoy affordable dental cleaning. With a membership, you pay an average of $69.
Keep in mind this price can vary based on factors such as location, the dentist's experience and the specific services included in the cleaning, such as X-rays and fluoride for adults, Healthline says.
Are there others costs associated with teeth cleaning?
Dental cleaning costs vary based on your location and whether or not you have dental insurance or a dental savings plan. There may be additional costs associated with a dental cleaning, Cleveland Clinic says. Based on your specific oral health needs, your dentist or hygienist might suggest additional preventive treatments:
Dental sealants are beneficial for protecting premolars and molars with deep grooves or crevices, as they shield these areas from cavity-causing bacteria.
Fluoride treatments work to strengthen your enamel and lower the risk of cavities.
Everyone can benefit from these preventive measures, so it’s important to factor these into your dental cleaning costs.
If a deep cleaning is necessary — typically recommended for individuals with gum disease — the cost is higher, ranging from $150 to $350 per quadrant of the mouth, according to WebMD.
What affects the cost of a deep cleaning?
A deep dental cleaning is required when your dentist has identified periodontal (gum) disease, according to Aspen Dental, which accepts Altogether Dental members. This type of cleaning targets bacteria that have extended deep below the gum line, causing gum infection. The process includes scaling and root planning:
Scaling removes these deposits from the tooth surfaces and pockets.
Root planning smoothes the root surfaces to facilitate gum reattachment and prevent bacterial growth.
If you’re asking, “Does insurance cover deep cleaning,” you’ll be happy to hear that many plans cover a portion of the cost for deep cleanings, especially if deemed medically necessary due to gum disease, Aspen Dental says.
More affordable options for dental cleaning
Dentists and dental hygienists are licensed oral health care professionals. Dentists address a range of conditions and provide restorative treatments and cosmetic procedures. Dental hygienists specialize in professional teeth cleanings and preventive care to support the health of your teeth and gums, Cleveland Clinic reports.
Dental hygienist prices can vary based on location, education level and experience.
To manage dental costs, the ADA suggests the following options:
Dental schools: Many dental schools offer services at reduced rates, as students perform procedures under professional supervision, WebMD says.
Nonprofit organizations: These often provide dental services on a sliding fee scale.
Government agencies: Children qualify for free or low-cost dental benefits through Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Call a dentist: Many dentists offer free or low-cost care on certain days.
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing more costly dental issues in the future. You can search dental cleaning near me to locate dental options in your area.
You might like to learn more about a dental savings plan. Dental savings plans are membership-based programs that offer discounts on dental services at participating dentists. As an Altogether Dental member, here are a few benefits you’ll enjoy:
Lower costs: With Altogether Dental, you’ll enjoy discounts of 15-50% on all dental procedures — everything from cleanings, fillings, orthodontia, dentures and more.
No waiting periods: Discounts are made available immediately upon enrollment.
No annual maximums: There are no annual limits on the amount of discounts you can receive.
Flexibility: Our partnership with Aetna gives you access to 260,000+ choices of in-network general and specialty care dentists.
