Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
Expect to pay $90-$475 per quadrant for deep cleaning (scaling & root planing) at a typical dental office, or $60-$250 per quadrant through discount programs and dental schools.
Deep cleaning treats gum disease by removing plaque and tartar below the gumline and smoothing root surfaces.
Sources: CDT benchmark database, state Medicaid fee schedules, and providers’ published rates. Re-verified monthly. Nothing on this page is a quote.
Typical Price Range
$90-$475 per quadrant
National average
Discount Programs & Dental Schools
$60-$250 per quadrant
FTC Pricing Disclaimer: Prices shown are estimated ranges based on ADA fee surveys, periodontal practices. Actual prices vary by location, dentist, and complexity. Always verify pricing before scheduling.
What's Included
- Local Anesthesia
- Scaling Below Gumline
- Root Planing
- Follow-up Evaluation
Recovery Time
1-2 days gum tenderness
Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) FAQs
How much does a deep cleaning cost without insurance?
Scaling and root planing costs $130-$475 per quadrant (quarter of your mouth) for 4+ teeth, or $90-$340 for 1-3 teeth. A full-mouth deep cleaning (all four quadrants) costs $360-$1,900. Full-mouth debridement, a lighter version, costs $90-$350.
Do I really need a deep cleaning or is it upselling?
A legitimate deep cleaning requires documented gum pocket depths of 4mm or more and X-ray evidence of tartar below the gumline. Ask to see your pocket-depth chart. If most readings are 1-3mm, a regular cleaning is usually sufficient. Getting a second opinion before agreeing is reasonable.
Does insurance cover deep cleanings?
Most dental insurance covers scaling and root planing at 50-80% as a basic-to-major procedure, often limited to once per quadrant every 24 months. Periodontal maintenance cleanings afterward ($80-$300 every 3-4 months) are also usually covered at a lower rate than standard cleanings.
Where to Get Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) for Less
Dental Schools
50-70% savings at 65 accredited schools
Community Clinics
Sliding-scale fees at FQHCs
Compare All Prices
CDT codes, Medicaid, discount plans
Plain-English answer: how to negotiate a dental bill
Step-by-step playbook with JAMA 2024 success rates and IRS 501(r) charity-care rules.