Cost of Dental Teeth Cleaning and How You Can Save
If you want to maintain good oral health, regular dental cleanings are essential. Not only do they help prevent gum disease and tooth decay, but they can also catch dental issues early on, which can save you from tooth pain and expensive procedures like root canals (wallet pain).
However, the cost of dental cleanings can vary greatly depending on several factors, including your location, the type of cleaning you need, and whether you have dental insurance.
To maintain good oral hygiene, it's recommended to get professional teeth cleaning by a dental hygienist every six months. During a routine cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove any tartar build-up above and below your gum line, polish your teeth, and take x-rays if necessary. The average cost
of teeth cleaning without insurance is between $140 and $200, but in reality, the total cost of the visit can be higher as you should also get a periodic oral exam from the dentist. Also, if you need additional services or have more severe dental issues this can increase the price as well.
You may be wondering if all of this is can be affordable. Fortunately the answer is yes, there is a way we will discuss that you can save on the cost of dental cleanings even if you don't have dental insurance.
Key Takeaways
- Regular dental cleanings are essential for good oral health and can prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
- The cost of dental cleanings can vary depending on several factors, but there are ways to save, such as investing in a dental discount plan. (See our top recommendation.)
- By maintaining good oral hygiene and getting regular cleanings, you can save money in the long run by avoiding expensive dental procedures.
Why You Should Never Skip Your Routine Dental Cleaning
During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar build-up from your teeth and gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and if left untreated, can harden into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dental professional, If left untreated it can lead to dental cavities and gum disease.
The dental hygienist will remove the tartar from your teeth and then will polish your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and stains. Finally, the hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any remaining debris and give you tips on how to improve your oral hygiene.
When you leave your dental office cleaning visit you will have brighter teeth, fresher breath, and a healthier mouth.
The Cost Factors of Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Routine cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. However, the cost of dental cleanings can vary depending on several factors. In this section, we will discuss the average cost of teeth cleaning and additional services that can impact the total cost.
Average Cost of Teeth Cleaning
The average cost of teeth cleaning without insurance ranges between $140 and $200 per session. However, the cost can be higher if additional services are required. The total cost of dental cleaning depends on several factors such as location, the type of dental insurance plan you have, and the dental hygienist's experience.
Additional Services and Their Costs
Additional services such as x-rays, deep cleaning, and fluoride treatments can increase the total cost of dental cleaning. X-rays are usually recommended once a year and can cost between $20 to $250 depending on the type of x-ray and the location of the dental clinic. Deep cleaning or scaling and root planning can cost up to $400 per session. Fluoride treatments can cost between $20 and $50 per application.
It's important to note that preventative dental care is the best way to avoid costly dental procedures such as root canals, which can cost thousands of dollars. Regular brushing, good oral hygiene, and routine cleanings can help prevent tartar build-up and gum disease.
If you don't have dental insurance, you can still save on dental cleaning costs by considering a dental discount plan. These plans offer discounts on dental services, including routine cleanings and additional services. You can also save money by finding a local dentist who offers competitive pricing.
In conclusion, the cost of dental cleaning depends on several factors such as location, the type of dental insurance plan you have, and the additional services required. However, investing in regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene practices can help you save money in the long run by preventing costly dental procedures.
Insurance and Payment Options
If you're concerned about the cost of dental cleanings, it's important to know that there are many insurance and payment options available to help you save money. Here are some of the most common options:
Navigating Dental Insurance Plans
Dental insurance plans can be confusing, but they can also be a great way to save money on dental cleanings and other preventative dental care. When choosing a dental insurance plan, it's important to consider the following:
- Coverage: Make sure the plan covers routine cleanings, x-rays, and other preventative services.
- Cost: Look at the total cost of the plan, including monthly premiums, deductibles, and co-pays.
- Network: Check to see if your local dentist is in-network, or if there are other dentists in the network that you would be comfortable seeing.
- Limitations: Some plans have limitations on the number of cleanings or other services you can receive each year.
The American Dental Association recommends that you review your dental insurance plan every year to make sure it still meets your needs.
Dental Savings Plan - A Good Alternative
If you don't have dental insurance or you are looking for something more affordable, there are other options available, including dental savings plans also known as dental discount plans.
A dental savings plan is a type of dental plan that saves you big on dental services, including cleanings and exams, that you are in need of. These plans don't have deductibles or co-pays, and there are no annual limits on the amount of care you can receive.
Dental savings plans can be a great way to save money on dental cleanings and other preventative dental care, especially if you don't have traditional dental insurance coverage.
Overall, there are many insurance and payment options available to help you cover the cost of dental cleanings and other preventative dental care. By choosing the best option for your needs, you can maintain good oral health and avoid more costly dental issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and the need for a root canal.
Preventive Dental Care Benefits
Regular cleanings and a good oral care routine are essential for maintaining good oral health. Preventive dental care is the best way to avoid serious dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and tartar build-up. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), routine cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues.
Avoiding Serious Dental Issues
Preventative dental care can help you avoid serious dental issues such as gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that build up along the gum line and can cause inflammation, bleeding, and eventually tooth loss. Regular dental cleanings can help remove the bacteria and prevent gum disease from developing.
In addition to gum disease, routine cleanings can also help prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that produce acid which can erode the tooth enamel. Regular cleanings can help remove the bacteria and prevent tooth decay from developing.
Routine Cleanings and Oral Health
Routine dental cleanings are an important part of good oral health. During a professional teeth cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar build-up from your teeth and gum line. They will also polish your teeth to remove any surface stains and give you a brighter smile.
X-rays may also be taken during your dental cleaning to check for any dental issues that may not be visible during a visual exam. X-rays can help detect dental issues such as cavities, impacted teeth, and bone loss.
Preventative dental care can help you avoid costly dental issues such as root canals and other dental procedures. By maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental cleanings, you can save money in the long run and avoid serious dental issues.
Overall, the total cost of dental cleanings can vary depending on your location and the additional services you may need. However, dental insurance plans and dental discount plans can help offset the cost of routine cleanings and other dental procedures. Contact your local dentist to learn more about the average cost of teeth cleaning and how you can save on your dental care.
Finding a Local Dental Provider
Finding a dentist near you is a key factor in keeping up with a good oral care routine. You want to choose a dentist who is conveniently located so that you can easily schedule routine cleanings and address any dental issues that arise.
If you already have a dental plan, check the plans in-network dentists near you. If you don't have a plan yet, you'll definitely want to start there so you have way to save on dental visits. Click here to see the plan we recommend. You can use it immediately for any dental service and it includes the Careington 500 dental network which has the biggest savings for it's members.
After checking the list of dentists on your dental plan, if you'd like you can do a little extra review. Look for reviews and ratings from other patients, and check to see if the dentist is a member of any professional organizations like the American Dental Association.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors contribute to the average cost of teeth cleaning at a local dentist?
The average cost of teeth cleaning can vary depending on several factors. One of the most significant factors is the location of the dental office. Dental offices in urban areas tend to have higher prices than those in rural areas. The experience and training of the dental professional can also affect the cost of teeth cleaning. Additionally, the cost of x-rays, the use of specialized equipment, and any other recommended services required can add additional cost to the total.
How can regular dental cleanings prevent gum disease and tooth decay?
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Gum disease and tooth decay are caused by plaque buildup and tartar on the teeth and gum line. Professional teeth cleaning can remove this buildup, preventing the development of these conditions. The American Dental Association recommends that adults receive a professional teeth cleaning at least once every six months.
In what ways can dental insurance plans and dental discount plans reduce the total cost of routine cleanings?
Dental insurance plans and dental discount plans can significantly reduce the total cost of routine cleanings. Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of routine cleanings, and some even cover the cost of x-rays and other preventive services. Dental discount plans offer discounts on dental services, including routine cleanings, to members who pay a monthly or annual fee.
Why is it important to maintain good oral hygiene through regular brushing and professional teeth cleaning?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing dental issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Regular brushing and flossing, combined with professional teeth cleaning, can remove plaque and tartar buildup and prevent the development of these conditions. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. Click here to see the only toothpaste we have been using and recommending for years to prevent cavities and whitening your teeth.
What additional services might increase the cost of dental cleanings and how can patients avoid them?
Additional services that might increase the cost of dental cleanings include deep cleaning, scaling and root planning, and fluoride treatment. While these services may be necessary for some patients, they are not typically required for routine cleanings. Patients can avoid these additional costs by maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups.
How does the American Dental Association suggest preventive dental care can help avoid root canals and other serious dental issues?
The American Dental Association recommends preventative dental care, including regular dental cleanings and checkups, as the best way to avoid root canals and other serious dental issues. Preventative care can identify dental issues early, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing the need for more invasive procedures. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is also essential for preventing dental issues. Click here to see the only toothpaste we have been using and recommending for years to prevent cavities and whitening your teeth.
Are dental cleanings free?
Dental cleanings are not free in themselves but if you have dental insurance coverage they may be free to you as your insurance provider will pay the dental office. If you don't have dental insurance you can still save on cleanings and all dental treatment with a dental discount plan like the one we recommend.