Paying for Healthy Gums: How Much Does Scaling & Root Planing Cost?

Your smile likely needs scaling and root planing if you have gum disease. That’s natural – the dental “deep cleaning” is often the best way to treat infected gums. Still, you should address a crucial question before treatment: How much does scaling and root planing cost? Its answer affects whether you go ahead with dental care. Luckily, your Fairfax dentist is here to help. Read on to learn scaling and root planing’s cost and how to avoid needing the treatment.

The Cost(s) of Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a “deep cleaning” around your gumline. Given that fact, its cost is strongly affected by whether its preventive or therapeutic.

When scaling and root planing is preventive, it tends to cost more. The average price for this type is $200 if treatment affects 1-3 teeth per quadrant. Meanwhile, the expense rises to $300 when the preventive work applies to four or more teeth per quadrant. Either cost, though, reflects a treatment that prevents infection and decay.

In contrast, therapeutic scaling and root planing is less costly. Since it treats an existing disease and is only done as needed, it doesn’t have as great of an impact. The result is that its average price is about $200, with a cost range of roughly $100-$350.

Does Insurance Cover Scaling & Root Planing?

The good news is that dental insurance often covers scaling and root planing. Most dental plans view gum disease treatment as necessary, so various benefits can apply.

In many cases, a dental plan will cover half of a scaling and root planing’s cost. The treatment can even be refunded once every two years if all goes well. That said, keep in mind that it will involve two dental visits if the gums are inflamed. The exact coverage can also change in certain cases, so you should check your policy.

How Can You Avoid Needing It?

Scaling and root planing doesn’t have to “break the bank,” but it’s better to avoid needing it at all. So, keep your gums healthy by using these tips:

• Floss More Often – Floss at least once a day. This helps remove the plaque and food that’s beyond your toothbrush’s reach, according to the ADA.
• Get Regular Dental Cleanings – Your dentist can detect and treat early gum disease symptoms if you see them often. From there, you’re less likely to need scaling and root planing.
• Stop Smoking – Smoking is linked to gum disease, as it weakens your immune system. It also keeps your gums from healing well once they’re damaged.
• Use a Therapeutic Mouthwash – Therapeutic mouthwashes can reduce plaque, prevent or reduce gingivitis, and reduce the speed at which tartar develops.

To learn more about how much scaling and root planing costs, just talk to your dental provider. They’ll gladly share the details and ensure your care is affordable.

About the Practice

Fairfax Dental Group is based in Fairfax, VA, and is led by Drs. Ayati, Young, and Vasa. Thanks to our team’s dedication, we’ve provided stellar dental care for over twenty-five years! Our practice has always offered personalized work in that time, including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. That means we’ll gladly treat your gum disease with top-tier scaling and root planing! For more details or to book a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (703)-560-6301.