Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health, and regular dental checkups are crucial in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. One of the most common dental procedures is a deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing. This procedure is recommended for patients with gum disease or those who have not had a professional cleaning in a while.
If you have dental insurance, you may be wondering how much a deep teeth cleaning will cost. In this article, we will break down the costs of a deep teeth cleaning and what your insurance may cover.
What is a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
A deep teeth cleaning is a non-surgical procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline. The procedure is typically performed by a dental hygienist or dentist and involves two parts: scaling and root planing.
Scaling involves removing the plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of the teeth and beneath the gumline using a manual scaler or an ultrasonic instrument. Root planing involves smoothing out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to remove bacteria and prevent future buildup.
Deep teeth cleanings are typically recommended for patients with gum disease, also known as periodontitis. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other oral health complications.
How Much Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Cost?
The cost of a deep teeth cleaning can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of gum disease, geographic location, and whether you have dental insurance.
According to the American Dental Association, the average cost of a deep teeth cleaning without insurance ranges from $140 to $300 per quadrant (or section of the mouth). This means that a full-mouth deep cleaning could cost anywhere from $560 to $1,200.
If you have dental insurance, your policy may cover some or all of the cost of a deep teeth cleaning. However, it is important to understand that not all insurance plans cover this procedure, and coverage levels can vary widely.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care such as cleanings and checkups, but coverage for more extensive procedures like deep teeth cleanings can be limited. Before scheduling a deep teeth cleaning, it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine what is covered under your plan.
If your plan covers deep teeth cleanings, you may be responsible for a portion of the cost in the form of a copayment or coinsurance. Copayments are a fixed dollar amount that you pay out of pocket for a particular service, while coinsurance is a percentage of the total cost of the procedure.
Additionally, some insurance plans may require that you meet a deductible before coverage kicks in. A deductible is a predetermined amount that you must pay out of pocket before your insurance benefits begin.
To find out what your insurance plan covers and what your out-of-pocket costs may be, contact your insurance provider or review your policy documents.
Conclusion
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health, and regular dental checkups are an important part of this process. If you have gum disease or have not had a professional cleaning in a while, a deep teeth cleaning may be recommended by your dentist.
While the cost of a deep teeth cleaning can vary depending on several factors, including your insurance coverage, it is important to prioritize your oral health. Contact your dentist or insurance provider to determine what your options are and how much you can expect to pay for a deep teeth cleaning.
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