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Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a non-surgical procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
Most dental insurance plans cover deep cleaning as a preventive measure to prevent further gum disease. However, coverage may vary depending on the type of plan and the insurance provider.
Typically, dental insurance plans require a diagnosis of periodontal disease before covering the cost of deep cleaning. This means you'll need to have a dental exam to determine if you have gum disease.
Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost, but you'll need to check your policy to see what's covered.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a serious condition that affects the gums and bone supporting your teeth. It's caused by an accumulation of tartar and plaque, which can lead to premature tooth loss and bone deterioration.
Advanced gum disease or a buildup of tartar and plaque often requires a more intense cleaning method called periodontal deep cleaning. This can be a two-visit process, as the teeth are cleaned in quadrants to ensure thorough coverage.
The cost of periodontal deep cleaning can be steep, especially without insurance. It can cost up to $1800 if you don't have coverage, making it a significant financial burden.
Cost and Financing
Dental insurance plans usually cover preventative services at 100%, but deep cleanings are categorized as basic procedures, covered at 60-80% depending on your plan.
You'll still need to pay a deductible or co-pay before insurance benefits kick in on the remaining portion of the deep cleaning.
The price of deep cleanings without insurance can range from $250 to $350 per quadrant, depending on the number of teeth per quadrant.
Deep cleanings are more expensive than routine cleanings, with prices ranging from $90 to $200 without insurance coverage.
You can expect to pay more for a deep cleaning than for a routine cleaning, with prices potentially doubling.
If you need a deep cleaning, it's a good idea to ask your dentist for a detailed breakdown of what's included in the treatment and an estimate of the cost beforehand.
Our insurance coordinators will run the math for you to estimate the total price of a deep cleaning, including any deductible or co-pay.
You can also finance a deep cleaning through options like CareCredit, which offers 0% interest payments for a few months until the balance is paid off.
Dental Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance can be a game-changer when it comes to covering the cost of deep cleaning. Most insurance plans will cover some or all of the deep cleaning teeth price. It's always a good idea to check with your provider before scheduling an appointment.
Your insurance coverage may limit the number of deep cleaning treatments you can receive annually. This is something to keep in mind if you're due for multiple cleanings.
Insurance can cover a significant portion of the cost, but it's essential to understand what's covered and what's not. You may need to pay out-of-pocket for some services or procedures.
What to Expect
You can book your deep cleaning appointment on any day of the week, including Saturday, and we'll get you in as soon as possible.
Your appointment will start with a discussion about your oral healthcare routine with your dental hygienist.
You can expect your hygienist to use special instruments to remove calculus and plaque below the gum line, and to remove tartar from the roots of your teeth.
Your deep cleaning may take two or more visits to complete, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Here's a breakdown of what to expect during your deep cleaning appointment:
- You and your dental hygienist will discuss your oral healthcare routine.
- Your hygienist will scale your teeth to remove calculus and plaque below the gum line.
- Your hygienist will remove tartar from the roots of your teeth using special instruments.
Dental Costs and Prices
Dental insurance plans tend to be prevention-based, covering services like six-month prophylactic cleanings at 100% twice a year.
Deep cleanings, on the other hand, are typically categorized as basic dental procedures, and the tier of coverage for these procedures usually drops to around 60-80% depending on your unique insurance plan details.
If you have a deductible or co-pay to meet, that amount will need to be paid before the insurance benefits "kick in" on the remaining portion of the deep cleaning.
The price of deep cleanings in Raleigh is based on a few factors, including how many quadrants of your mouth need to be deep cleaned and the number of teeth per quadrant.
For the average patient, deep cleaning services will cost anywhere from $250 to $350 per quadrant.
Routine dental cleanings without insurance coverage can cost anywhere from $90 to $200, while a full package including exams, x-rays, and cleanings could cost upwards of $450.
Deep cleaning, usually following regular dental cleaning, can more than double the cost.
You can expect to pay between $160 to $226 per quadrant for deep cleanings.
Many dental offices, like Edge Dental and Orthodontics, are in-network with most major PPO dental plans, and can provide you with an estimated out-of-pocket cost before treatment.
Oral Health and Maintenance
Oral health maintenance is crucial to prevent relapse after a deep cleaning.
You'll want to schedule periodontal maintenance cleanings at 3-4 month intervals to keep your smile healthy.
These cleanings can help prevent future problems and ensure the health of your tissues.
The cost of periodontal maintenance visits may not be fully covered by your dental insurance, so be prepared for extra costs.
It's essential to discuss your oral health status with your dentist to determine the best maintenance schedule for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions about deep cleanings? Let's dive into some frequently asked questions.
If you're wondering whether you really need a deep cleaning, the answer is that your hygienist will evaluate the buildup of plaque and bacteria along your gum line and the condition of your gums before giving a diagnosis.
How often you should get a deep cleaning depends on your individual needs, but it's recommended that you follow up with periodontal maintenance appointments to keep your oral health on track.
Brushing your teeth before your appointment is a good idea, so make sure to do that.
If you have a specific dental concern, don't be afraid to speak up! Your dentist wants to know about your dental history, needs, and concerns.
We see patients with dental anxiety every day, and we're here to help you feel calm and comfortable.
Factors Influencing Cost Breakdown in General Dentistry
The cost of dental deep cleaning can vary depending on several factors. The average price for a deep cleaning service is $250 to $350 per quadrant.
Insurance coverage plays a significant role in determining the cost of deep cleaning. If you don't have insurance, you can expect to pay more.
The cost of routine dental cleanings without insurance coverage is anywhere from $90 to $200. This can more than double with the addition of exams, x-rays, and cleanings.
Your dentist can provide you with an estimate beforehand, so you know how much to expect. This breakdown can help you understand what's included in the treatment.
The cost of deep cleaning without insurance can be steep, but it's essential for maintaining good oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a deep cleaning considered preventive?
Deep cleanings are not part of routine preventive care, but they can help stop gum disease from getting worse. They're a reactive treatment that addresses existing problems, but can also prevent further damage.
Sources
- https://www.raleighdentalarts.com/blog/afford-deep-cleaning/43054
- https://edgedentallv.com/services/gum-disease/deep-cleanings/
- https://oldmtpleasantdentistry.com/can-you-get-your-teeth-cleaned-without-dental-insurance/
- https://northsidedentalco.com/how-much-is-a-deep-cleaning-at-the-dentist/
- https://cornerstonesmiles.com/cost-breakdown-of-deep-cleaning-and-x-rays-in-general-dentistry/
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