Oral hygiene is a crucial component of our overall well-being. Good oral hygiene comprises of our daily routine like brushing our teeth at least twice everyday (morning and night), flossing our teeth after meals, drinking enough water during the day, and having a healthy diet that is rich in calcium and minimal on starch and sugar. Good oral hygiene also entails having regular dental cleanings to help fend off gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
However, dental cleanings don’t come cheap, especially if you don’t have insurance coverage for dental care. In this article, we will examine the difficulties associated with the cost of dental cleaning without insurance, the factors that weigh in on pricing, and the options available to you for finding affordable dental care.
Also read: How to Get Dental Implants Covered by Medical Insurance
Factors That Affect The Cost of Dental Cleaning Without Insurance
If you are considering undergoing a dental cleaning without insurance, several factors will influence your final bill. Some of them are:
- Your geographic location: What region or state you reside in has an effect on the price you will pay for a dental cleaning without insurance. For instance, you should expect to pay more if you reside in an urban area.
- The type of cleaning you are contemplating: Are you going for a standard or deep cleaning? A standard cleaning procedure is cheaper when compared to a deep cleaning. A deep cleaning is an advanced procedure which includes scaling and root planing and will be required if you happen to suffer from gum disease. The procedure removes tartar below the gum line and treats inflamed gums.
- Extra procedures you will be accessing: There will be X-rays and blood work to be done and maybe a few other diagnostic exams. Also, you might require a full-mouth debridement; and all of these extra procedures add to the final bill.
What is the Average Cost of Dental Cleaning Without Insurance?
As stated earlier, the cost of dental cleaning without insurance varies widely and depends on several factors.
Generally, you should expect to hand out between US$120 and US$200 for the standard dental cleaning without insurance. A deep cleaning can cost as much as US$500. Do note that deep cleaning is required only if you have gum disease.
These costs are estimates and the actual cost for your deep cleaning without insurance may vary based on your location and other factors. Also, it’s best practice for you to get your dental cleaning done at least twice in a year.
If you do have a dental insurance plan, your plan might cover part or all of the entire cost of your dental cleaning.
Also read: How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost Without Insurance?
Affordable Dental Cleaning Options You Should Explore
Paying out-of-pocket for dental care when you have no insurance coverage can be a challenge, but there are affordable options you should consider:
- Dental schools:
There are dental schools, especially in colleges, that offer discounted dental cleaning services. Usually, these services are handled by dental students working under the close supervision of their licensed dentists cum professors.
- Community health centers:
If you live in a rural or semi-rural area, then there will be a community health center nearby where you can access dental cleaning at reduced rates. These centers are set up to provide highly-discounted healthcare services to folks living in the communities where they are situated; since most of these folks will be average and low income earners.
- Dental discount plans:
Dental discount plans are membership plans you can subscribe to to access discounted prices on dental services like dental cleaning at select dental practices in the location where you live. They are structured in a similar manner to the discount clubs for groceries.
You buy a plan by paying a one-time annual fee upfront; although this could also be split into monthly installmental payments. Once you have a dental discount plan going for you, you will be able to pay out of pocket for the discounted dental services you access throughout the period for which you are subscribed.
Also read: Full Mouth Dental Implants Cost With Insurance in 2024
Other options you can consider include include falling back on funds you might have accumulated through, for example, a Health Savings Account or a Flexible Spending Account; especially if you are situated in the United States.
Fortunately, a dental cleaning procedure is a preventive dental service and not a restorative one such as a root canal or crown; and thus, will set you back financially far less.
Save Dental Cleaning Costs Through Preventive Care
Having a daily routine for maintaining your oral health will help fend off serious dental problems like tooth or gum decay. Preventive oral care will help you save money in the long run. It also helps you detect any dental issues like cavities and/or gum disease that might be coming up and prompts you to act proactively to tackle them. Thus, you will be able to avoid costly dental procedures like root canals or extractions.
Sticking to a good oral care routine that includes brushing at least twice a day with a fluoride-based toothpaste, flossing, regular use of mouthwash after meals, and so on, will positively impact your dental health and completely eliminate the need for you to access dental cleanings.
Conclusion
Trying to access dental cleaning without insurance could potentially be financially burdensome for you. If you factor in those variables that influence the price, such as your location, the type of cleaning you are contemplating, and whether or not you will require additional procedures, you will be able to budget and plan adequately for your dental care. Also, affordable care options like accessing care in a dental school or in a community health center are viable options you should consider.
Finally, make preventive oral health care a priority. It will keep you in good health and protect your finances, too. Remember that your dental health ultimately impacts your overall well-being.
We strongly encourage you to schedule a consultation with your dentists to discuss your specific situation and explore all available options. They can guide you through the insurance process, recommend financing solutions, and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your oral health and confidence.
