How Much Does a Dental Cleaning Cost?

How much does a dental cleaning cost?

Without insurance, the average dental cleaning costs $104.² Costs may vary depending on factors such as:

• Location: Dentists in areas with high living costs, such as urban areas, may charge more.
• Office type: Private dental practices may charge more than chains, which charge more than community clinics.
• Clinic reputation: Top-ranked or specialty offices may charge more for cleanings.
• Dental professional experience: Dentists with more experience may charge more for cleanings.
• Additional services: If additional services are needed, you’ll have to pay extra.
• Type of cleaning: If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you may need a deep cleaning. These cleanings go deeper than standard cleanings and may require more time, making them more expensive.
• Additional services: If additional services are needed, you’ll have to pay extra.

Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for preventative care, basic services, and major services. The typical dental plan covers at least one routine cleaning each year, so you won’t have to pay out of pocket for an annual cleaning.

How dental cleanings work

Dental cleanings are a standard procedure in which a dentist or dental hygienist examines and cleans your teeth to help you maintain good oral health. Hygienists often perform the cleanings, whereas the dentist will come by at the end and check your teeth more quickly. Depending on how busy the office is and how much cleaning is needed, the whole process may take 30 minutes to an hour.

Here’s what to expect during a cleaning with a dental hygienist:³

• Oral health screening: The hygienist uses a small dental mirror to examine your mouth. They’ll look for cavities, gum inflammation, and other potential problems. They may call in the dentist if they uncover major issues.


• X-rays: If necessary, the hygienist may perform X-rays on your teeth to help your dentist get a better view of your teeth roots, supporting bone, and surrounding structures.


• Dental cleaning: The hygienist cleans the surface of each tooth using special instruments to remove plaque and tartar. They'll also polish your teeth using a special paste.


• Tooth planing and scaling: The hyigenist removes plaque and tartar beneath the surface of your gums before smoothing out the root surfaces to prevent more plaque and tartar buildup.


• Fluoride treatment: Before calling in the dentist, the hygienist may provide a fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel and help reduct your risk of cavities.


• Dentist check: Finally, the hygienist calls in the dentist, who goes over your teeth again and examines any X-rays you took during the appointment. They’ll tell you how things look and let you know if there are any concerns.