The Cost of Dental Cleanings in North East, PA

Breaking Down Dental Cleaning Cost

While dental cleanings are essential for maintaining your oral health, our North East, PA, dentist recognizes that the cost can be a barrier for some patients. Fortunately, most insurance plans cover dental cleanings. Dr. Dina Nuhfer provides a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with dental cleanings and the resources available to help you access necessary dental care and uphold good oral health.

If you’re searching for a new dentist in North East, contact our North East dental office today to book your routine professional cleaning at (814) 725-4700.

How Much Do Dental Cleanings Cost?

In the United States, the typical cost for a dental cleaning ranges between $75 and $200 per appointment. However, if additional procedures are necessary, the teeth cleaning cost may increase. 

For instance, scaling and root planing can reach up to $400 for each deep cleaning session. The overall cost will also be influenced by various factors, including the geographical location, the dentist’s expertise, and other considerations.

Factors That Influence Dental Cleaning Costs

Several elements can impact the average cost of your dental cleaning. These factors include:

• Geographic Location: Costs can vary significantly based on the dental office’s location. Urban dental offices generally charge more than those situated in rural areas.
• Type of Cleaning Needed: The cost also hinges on the type of cleaning required. Routine cleanings are typically less expensive than periodontal maintenance or scaling and root planing.
• Dental Insurance: Having dental insurance can greatly reduce the cost of routine dental cleanings. Coverage amounts vary depending on the insurance plan.
• Additional Treatments: The cost of dental cleaning can rise if additional treatments, such as fluoride applications or dental X-rays, are necessary.
• Dentist’s Experience and Training: More experienced dentists often charge higher fees compared to their less experienced counterparts.

Additional Costs

During a professional teeth cleaning, extra expenses may arise based on the individual’s dental health and the specific type of cleaning required.

Here are some potential additional costs:

• Dental X-rays: If X-rays are needed as part of the cleaning, there could be an extra charge, which varies depending on the number of images required.
• Fluoride treatment: Although optional, fluoride treatments can help protect against tooth decay. If a patient opts for fluoride treatment during their cleaning, an additional fee may apply.
• Deep cleaning: Patients with significant tartar buildup or gum disease might need a deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. This is more comprehensive than routine cleaning and incurs higher costs.
• Dental sealants: Dental sealants are a protective coating applied to teeth to prevent decay. Choosing to have sealants applied during a routine cleaning may result in an extra charge.

It’s important to discuss any potential additional costs with the dental office before scheduling a cleaning. Many dental offices provide an estimate of the total cost, including any extra treatments, ahead of the appointment. 

Patients should also verify with their insurance provider to see if additional dental services and treatments are covered. By understanding the possible additional costs associated with a dental cleaning, patients can make informed decisions regarding their oral health and budget.

Dental Insurance

Dental insurance can significantly reduce the cost of dental cleanings and other dental procedures. The extent of your coverage for dental cleanings will depend on your specific insurance plan, but most plans typically cover at least two cleanings annually.

Here’s a general breakdown of what insurance coverage usually looks like:

• Preventive care: Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care at 100%, meaning you won’t have any out-of-pocket expenses. This includes dental cleanings, exams, and X-rays.
• Basic procedures: Basic procedures, such as dental fillings and tooth extractions, are generally covered at 80%. This means you’ll need to pay 20% of the cost out of pocket.
• Major procedures: Major procedures, such as dental crowns and root canals, are typically covered at 50%, requiring you to pay 50% of the cost out of pocket.

When selecting an insurance plan, consider these tips:

• Opt for a plan that covers preventive care at 100%. This ensures you won’t incur out-of-pocket costs for dental cleanings.
• Confirm that your chosen plan is in-network with your dentist. This maximizes your coverage for dental cleanings.
• Be mindful of the deductibles and copays associated with your plan. This will help you budget for dental cleaning costs.
• Submit your dental insurance claims promptly to ensure timely reimbursement for dental cleaning expenses.

Financing Dental Cleanings

If you’re without insurance and exploring alternatives, consider these financing options:

• Dental credit cards: Several dental credit cards are available that provide financing options for dental procedures, including cleanings. These cards often offer 0% interest for a specific period, such as 6 or 12 months, on purchases exceeding a certain amount.
• In-house dental financing: Some dental practices offer in-house financing plans for their patients. This can be a viable option if you have poor credit or do not qualify for a dental credit card.
• CareCredit: CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that can be utilized to finance dental cleanings and other medical treatments. CareCredit offers 0% interest for 6, 12, 18, or 24 months on purchases of $200 or more, provided you make the minimum monthly payments and settle the full amount by the end of the promotional period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is paying out of pocket for a dental cleaning more affordable?

If you lack dental insurance, paying out of pocket for a standard dental cleaning might be more affordable. However, if you have dental insurance, it’s generally more cost-effective to utilize your insurance benefits.

What does a dental cleaning involve?

A dental cleaning usually involves a comprehensive cleaning of your teeth, which includes removing plaque and tartar buildup. Your dentist may also polish your teeth and apply a fluoride treatment. During your visit, your dentist will provide a detailed breakdown of your treatment.

Dental Cleanings: A Smart Investment for a Healthy Smile

Don’t let the expense of dental cleanings deter you from maintaining excellent oral health. Reach out to our North East dental office today to discuss costs and explore financing options for routine cleanings. Investing in regular dental cleanings is a proactive step towards preserving your oral health and can help you avoid expensive dental treatments in the future.

Don’t delay—schedule your dental cleaning today by calling (814) 725-4700. We’re proud to serve patients in North East, Erie, Ripley, Findley Lake, and the surrounding areas.