Do you want to know more about scaling and root planing cost and the procedure itself? You are in the right place.
The scaling and root planing procedure is a non-surgical procedure that professionals use to remove plaque under the surface of the gums and prevent bacterial build-up. In addition to regular brushing and flossing, this easy practice can help you prevent serious gum disease and periodontal disease.
So, if you are ready to get familiar with the details of this routine dental cleaning, keep on reading, and let’s jump right in.
How Much Does Scale and Root Planing Cost?
On average, the scaling and root planing costs go from $150 to $350 per quadrant of the mouth. This price will depend on the treatment plan, the current condition of your teeth, the general dentist, and the dental insurance plan you might have.
Root planing procedures might include x-rays, full mouth debridement, antibiotic injections, and anesthesia. So, the final price for dental deep cleaning scaling might differ for each patient.
While gum disease is preventable, it’s one of the most common reasons people lose their teeth and have various dental issues. Regular cleaning sometimes is not enough to get to places that are harder to reach, so make sure you ask your orthodontist or dentist about deep teeth cleaning and if you need one.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Scaling and Root Planing?
Yes, considering that dental scaling and root planing is a medical emergency, many dental insurance plans will cover 50% of the cost.
While you will pay out-of-pocket costs and cover half of the initial price, having a great insurance provider will help you save money and have that beautiful smile and healthy mouth.
If you are not sure what your dental insurance plan covers for dental procedures, you should contact your provider and get more detail. In addition, your dentist will have details about the active therapy and the final costs that can influence your decision.
Keep in mind that most insurance providers have a yearly limit policy, and you can only spend a certain amount of money on your dental care. If you exceed the limitations, you can still divide the treatment into two sections and schedule your appointment accordingly.
Root Planing Procedure
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning of the tooth that covers the places you wouldn’t usually get cleaned with regular cleaning. Tooth scaling is performed with a local anesthetic, and the patient doesn’t feel any discomfort during the procedure.
Specialized tools such as ultrasonic instruments are used to remove plaque buildup and smooth the tooth’s surface to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Here are the phases you can expect when you decide to do preventive scaling:
- Assessment – In the initial session, your dentist will determine the severity of the plaque buildup and create a treatment plan. If you have too much tartar (calculus), your dentist might refer you to a specialist or periodontist.The experts have the education and experience with cases that require surgery or small incisions under the gum line. In some cases, additional x-rays might be necessary for a complete assessment.
- Dental scaling – Using manual or specialized electrical tools, your dentist or periodontist will remove the hard build-up and polish the surface of your teeth under local anesthesia. This way, the bacteria is also removed, and the inflamed gums have a chance to heal.Advanced techniques and ultrasound machines are often used to reduce the stress on the surrounding soft tissue and expedite healing.
- Healing process – After the treatment is done, you will be prescribed antibiotics if needed. Most patients report slight discomfort and sensitivity of the treated area for a few days, so you might want to avoid cold food and drinks and spicy and hot dishes.
Remember that all additional work, expert team, and treatment cost more but have the best results. You must ensure that the scaling and root planing cost is proportionate to the care and outcomes you receive and that the dentist you choose is the best option for your situation.
Who Performs Scaling and Root Planing?
Your general dentist can do professional teeth cleaning if the severity of the case allows them to clean the tooth and heal the gum tissue fully. However, suppose the planing treatment is more complex, and the gum disease is advanced. In that case, your dentist will most likely refer you to a periodontist specialist who will perform active periodontal therapy.
While periodontal maintenance costs might be higher, you should invest in your healthy smile.
Does Scaling and Root Planing Help with Gum Disease?
Yes, the scaling and root planing procedure helps with stubborn tartar and inflamed gums.
The plaque build-up on your teeth causes bacterial inflammation of the soft tissue and erodes the gum fibers holding the teeth firmly in place. Over time as the inflammations develop rapidly, you will notice deep pockets forming around your teeth and eventually lost teeth (edentulism).
If you want to prevent periodontal disease, you need to maintain your oral hygiene and talk to your dental hygienist about the best deep cleaning options that will help you.
Final Thoughts on Scaling and Root Planing Cost
The scaling and root planing procedure is a non-invasive way to get your teeth deep cleaned and ensure there is no plaque build-up even under the gum line. Considering gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth decay and tooth loss, you need to talk to your dentists about the best treatment.
The cost of active therapy and root planing procedure may vary depending on your location, current condition, and dental insurance plans. Most of the time, you can expect prices from $150 to $350 per quadrant, but the insurance will cover half of the mentioned cost.
You can ask your orthodontist or fill out a quick contact form online with your insurance provider for more information on the price.