How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost?
Regular teeth cleanings performed by a dentist are an essential part of a well-rounded oral hygiene routine. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash at home are the foundations of a quality oral health routine, but even the best brushers and flossers still need to have additional plaque and tartar cleared away at regular intervals. Without this plaque and tartar being cleared away, it will build to the point of causing more serious oral health issues such as periodontal disease. Read on to learn more about teeth cleanings by a dentist and how much they typically cost.
What is a teeth cleaning?
Teeth cleanings are performed by dentists with the key goal of clearing away plaque and tartar buildup that are unreachable by brushing and flossing. Teeth cleanings are usually performed at 6-month intervals. During a teeth cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will examine the teeth and gums to identify potential issues, scale or scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, especially below the gumline, polish the teeth, and apply fluoride. Teeth cleanings by a dentist compliment a typical oral health routine of brushing and flossing.
How much does a teeth cleaning cost?
The price of a teeth cleaning can vary person to person and dentist to dentist. An average, cost a person can expect to pay is between $75 and $200 for a routine cleaning. This price is for a basic cleaning which is done during a dental checkup. There are several factors that can influence the cost of a teeth cleaning that are important to be aware of.
- Insurance: The cost of a teeth cleaning is higher for people without insurance. The overall cost is the same, but the out-of-pocket cost for the individual is higher. However, most dental offices offer a range of payment options, and you can often discuss pricing with the office staff beforehand.
- Location: The cost can also vary depending on the dental office’s location, with offices in major cities or more affluent areas often charging higher rates compared to those in rural locations.
- Potential Complications: If the dentist finds signs of cavities or other dental issues, they may recommend additional treatments, such as fillings, sealants, or X-rays. These can increase the overall cost of the visit.
- X-rays: X-rays are commonly taken during a dental exam. They typically cost between $25 and $250, depending on the type of X-rays needed. Dental exams usually cost between $50 and $100, and sometimes this cost is included in the cleaning fee. X-rays are also typically covered or partially covered by insurance plans.
- Preventative Care: If the patient requires fluoride treatments or other preventive care, this may be an additional charge as well. Fluoride treatments generally cost between $20 and $50 per treatment. Some insurance plans cover the cost of fluoride and some do not.
What does this mean for me?
If you need a dental cleaning and are wondering about the cost, reach out to your dentist. They will be able to let you know the typical costs at their office and assess your insurance coverage to determine what your out-of-pocket costs might be.