How much is dental cleaning?

Key takeaways

• Prevention saves money: Routine cleanings help prevent cavities and costly treatments later.
• Cleanings cost less than deep cleanings: But prices depend on your location, coverage, and treatment needs.
• No dental insurance? No problem: Explore alternatives like dental discount plans, community health centers, and dental schools for lower-cost care. Services and costs may vary.

A trip to the dentist isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time, but keeping your smile healthy is worth it. Knowing what to expect for routine and deep cleanings can help you plan and avoid surprising costs. Here’s what you need to know.

Why are dental cleanings important?

Professional dental cleanings go beyond what an everyday toothbrush and toothpaste can achieve. How do dentists achieve keeping your teeth shiny and bright? The process usually includes removing plaque and tartar, polishing your teeth, and topping things off with a protective fluoride treatment. This helps keep your mouth fresh, healthy, and free of issues like cavities or even gum disease. Remember, a little cleaning now can help you save big later on!

There are two main types of cleanings:

• Routine cleanings: These quick and easy cleanings are your regular checkups. They’re usually done every six months to maintain good oral health. A little prevention goes a long way!
• Deep cleaning: These cleanings show your mouth just a little bit more love in case tartar has caused inflammation, or your gums show early signs of disease. They are more intense and can be pricier than routine cleanings. These can help you save time and pain from even bigger problems later on.

Pro Tip: Did you know? Your oral health can actually affect your overall health in major ways! Routine visits are an opportunity to reveal early signs of other potential dental issues. If you don’t take proper care of your oral health, bigger issues can arise, like heart disease and diabetes. 

How much is a dental cleaning?

The price of a dental cleaning can vary based on things like where you are and what kind of cleaning you need. Here’s a quick rundown.

• Routine Cleanings: $75 – $200 on average per visit.
• Deep Cleaning: $150 – $300 per quadrant.

If you end up needing some extra work done in your mouth, here are some costs you might want to consider:

• X-rays: $35-$130 on average.
• Fluoride treatment: Up to $50 on average.
• Sealants: $40-$100 per tooth on average.

Options for affordable dental cleanings without insurance

Regular dental cleanings are important for your oral health, and there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to get the care you need. If traditional insurance isn’t the right fit, explore these alternative options to keep your smile in great shape.

Dental discount plans

These plans are like a membership club for your dental care. You pay an annual fee and get discounted rates on cleanings and other dental services.

Community health centers

This option is great for people looking for affordable care. These federally funded health centers have fees that are based on your income. If you qualify, you’ll pay less than what you’d typically pay at a regular dentist’s office.

Not sure where to start? Visit the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) health center locator and find locations near you!

Dental schools

Dental schools offer a budget-friendly way to get professional cleanings at a lower cost. Students perform the cleanings under the supervision of experienced instructors, providing care while they gain hands-on experience. It’s a win-win — you save money, and they get the training they need. To find a school nearby, you can check out the American Dental Association website or do a quick search online.

Financing options

Paying for your cleaning all at once is a huge bite to swallow. Many dental offices offer payment plans or CareCredit, a health and wellness credit card that allows you to pay for your treatment over time with little to no interest if paid within a certain period

Other alternatives

Some nonprofits or local events might offer free cleanings at low-cost dental clinics. You can also keep an eye out for dental hygiene events that provide discounts or free services.

Tips for managing dental cleaning costs

Saving money on your dental care does not mean that you have to settle on the quality of care. If you’re looking to see how you can make the most of your budget while still receiving good dental care, here are a few helpful tips.

• Make sure you’re keeping up with your daily oral hygiene. That means brushing and flossing every day to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which can help you avoid those pricey deep cleanings. 
• Do your homework! Be sure to compare prices between clinics and other dental care providers so you can figure out what’s included and what works best for you. 
• Stick to your schedule. Prevention is usually a lot cheaper than having to deal with issues once they’ve popped up. Don’t wait for a toothache to remind you to call your dentist. 
• Some dental offices have promotions and discounts for new patients or special deals for families. Shop around and see where you can find providers that will help you save some cash.

The big picture

Investing in your oral health now means fewer problems later — and more savings. With plenty of affordable options, like dental discount plans and community clinics, you can keep your smile bright and your wallet heavy. The key is to be proactive — don’t wait until you have a dental emergency to start thinking about your oral health. By staying informed and taking advantage of available resources, you can make dental care affordable and accessible. Whether it’s time for your routine cleaning or you need a little more help, take the next step to keep your smile and your budget in great shape!

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