How Much Does Scaling and Root Planing Cost?
Source: Unsplash
If your dentist or periodontist recommended scaling and root planing, you’re likely in the early to moderate stages of periodontal disease. This deep cleaning procedure can remove hardened plaque (tartar) from below the gumline and smooth the roots of your teeth to prevent bacteria from building up.
Scaling and root planing is an investment in your oral health and can prevent more invasive treatments in the future, but you may be wondering about the costs. There are many factors that can affect pricing, but this breakdown can help you plan your budget.
“The cost of scaling and root planing can vary based on how many sections of your mouth (quadrants) need treatment, the severity of your gum disease, and whether you have insurance.”
What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a dental procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline in the spots that routine cleanings can’t reach. It may be used to treat early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) and more advanced stages of periodontitis.
The first step is scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface using manual tools or ultrasonic scalers. This process also clears the bacteria from the periodontal pockets that form between the teeth and gums.
The next step is root planing, which smooths the roots of the teeth to remove bacteria and prevent them from adhering to the tooth surface. This can help the gum tissue reattach to the tooth and reduce the depths of the pockets.
Scaling and root planing are often used to prevent teeth and gums from infection and decay, but they may be used therapeutically to treat existing gum disease and mitigate its effects. Depending on the severity of gum disease, the procedure may be necessary once or twice a year to maintain your oral health.
Average Scaling and Root Planing Cost
The cost of scaling and root planing can vary based on how many sections of your mouth (quadrants) need treatment, the severity of your gum disease, and whether you have insurance.
Scaling and Root Planing with Insurance
If you have dental insurance that covers periodontal services, scaling and root planing are often partially or fully covered. Many plans cover 50% to 80% of the procedure’s costs.
Depending on your policy, deductible, and co-pay, the average out-of-pocket cost is $0 to $200. However, you should always verify your coverage to plan for expenses.
Scaling and Root Planing without Insurance
If you don’t have dental insurance, you’ll likely have higher out-of-pocket costs for your procedure. Costs are usually calculated per quadrant at an average of $169 to $352 each. Your full mouth – all four quadrants – averages about $676 to $1,408.
Other Possible Costs
In addition to the scaling and root planing procedure, you may need local anesthesia for comfort at an average of $25 to $75 per quadrant without insurance. You’re likely to need follow-up maintenance cleanings to mitigate the effects of gum disease, which range from $80 to $150 each without insurance.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Scaling and Root Planing
Several factors can influence your final costs for root planing and scaling, including:
Severity of periodontal disease: If you have deep periodontal pockets and more extensive buildup, the procedure may be longer, more complex, and more expensive.
Number of quadrants treated: Costs are typically per quadrant, so treating all four quadrants will be more expensive than just one or two.
Location: Dental care prices can vary based on the regional cost of living.
Provider: If you have more severe periodontal disease, a specialist (periodontist) may need to perform the procedure, which may mean higher costs.
Additional costs: If you need additional treatments like X-rays or antibiotics, these can add to the overall cost.
Tips for Finding Affordable, High-Quality Dental Care
Check your insurance coverage: If you have dental insurance, even partial coverage can make a big difference in your out-of-pocket expenses. Check your policy to understand your coverage.
Membership plans or financing: Some offices offer dental savings plans or financing programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for regular patients. Ask your dental office about any financing options.
Choose experience: Working with an experienced periodontist can help you avoid unnecessary repeat treatments or complications for more cost-effective treatment.
Don’t delay: Periodontal disease is progressive. The longer you wait, the more extensive and costly the treatment becomes.
Protect Your Smile with Periodontal Care
At Central Texas Periodontics, we offer a range of periodontal disease treatments customized to your needs. We’re dedicated to preserving your oral health, preventing unnecessary expenses, and helping you keep your natural teeth for life. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and protect your smile!