With gum disease, a routine cleaning won’t always suffice—sometimes, your teeth will need a deep cleaning, otherwise known as scaling and root planing.
Dental deep cleaning costs in Chicago vary, and understanding the factors involved can help you budget wisely.
At a Glance:
- Deep cleaning costs in Chicago typically range from $200 to $400 per quadrant or $800 to $1,600 for a full-mouth treatment.
- Insurance can help cover costs, but coverage depends on your plan, diagnosis, and deductible requirements.
- The extent of gum disease, the number of teeth needing treatment, and the use of anesthetics or sedation influence pricing.
Dental Deep Cleaning Cost in Chicago
A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that treats gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gumline. In Chicago, the cost of this procedure varies based on several factors, including the severity of the condition.
Generally, you can expect to pay $200–$400 per quadrant. For full-mouth deep cleaning, costs typically run between $800 and $1,600.
- Deep Cleaning Teeth Cost With Insurance: Many dental insurance plans cover deep cleaning procedures, often covering 80% or more of the cost.
- Deep Cleaning Teeth Cost Without Insurance: $200–$400 per quadrant and $800–$1,600 for full-mouth treatment.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Deep Cleaning
The cost of a dental deep cleaning will vary based on individual need. Costs can also vary from provider to provider, so check local options if you feel the quote you received is too high.
Severity of Gum Disease
Mild cases of gum disease may need minimal scaling, while severe cases demand deeper root planing, multiple visits, and possibly antibiotic treatment.
Number of Teeth Needing Treatment
Deep cleaning is typically charged per quadrant (one-fourth of the mouth). If only one or two quadrants require treatment, the cost will be lower. However, if all four quadrants need treatment, the expense increases.
Insurance Coverage
Dental insurance can significantly reduce deep cleaning costs. Some plans cover a large percentage of the procedure, while others may only cover 50%. Coverage limits, copays, and patient diagnosis all impact out-of-pocket expenses.
Anesthetics
Local anesthesia is all that’s typically required, but if conscious sedation or general anesthesia is used, costs will rise.
Paying for a Dental Deep Cleaning
Paying upfront with cash or a credit card is a straightforward option, and some dental offices may even offer small discounts for cash payments. However, this is not an option for everyone. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage the expense:
Insurance
Dental insurance can cover part or most of the cost of deep cleaning, especially if gum disease is diagnosed. Coverage varies, with some plans paying a percentage while others require copays or deductibles. Check your benefits beforehand to avoid surprises.
Financing Plans
Many dental providers offer financing plans that allow patients to pay for deep cleaning in manageable monthly installments. These plans may have low or no interest, depending on the provider and your credit score.
Special Membership Plans
Some dental offices offer in-house membership plans, which provide discounted rates on procedures, including deep cleaning. These plans are ideal for patients without insurance, offering savings for an annual or monthly fee.
Understanding Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)
Deep cleaning goes beyond a routine dental cleaning to target plaque and bacteria beneath the gumline. This procedure is essential for treating gum disease, preventing tooth loss, and promoting long-term oral health.
When Deep Cleaning Is Necessary
A deep cleaning is recommended when plaque and tartar buildup cause gum inflammation, leading to early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) or more advanced periodontitis.
Signs you may need this procedure include persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, gum recession, and deep pockets around teeth. Without treatment, gum disease can progress, leading to tooth and bone loss.
What’s Involved
The procedure consists of two parts: scaling and root planing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from teeth surfaces and below the gumline. Root planing smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach and prevent bacteria buildup. Treatment may be completed in one or multiple visits.
Follow-Up Care
Proper aftercare is essential for healing and preventing reinfection. Patients may experience mild soreness and sensitivity, which can be managed with pain relievers.
Crunchy and spicy foods should be avoided for several days after treatment. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing twice daily. Dentists often recommend antimicrobial rinses and follow-up visits to monitor healing.
You Deserve a Healthy Smile!
A dental deep cleaning is an investment in your health, comfort, and future. Skipping treatment to save money now can lead to far greater costs down the road, both financially and in terms of your well-being.
The cost of deep cleaning may seem like a lot, but the cost of untreated gum disease is far greater. Take control of your oral health today—you and your smile deserve it.
Ready to enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile? Forever Dental is a leading dental provider committed to ensuring the oral health of Chicago residents. Schedule your appointment at one of our two convenient locations today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is deep cleaning so expensive?
Deep cleaning costs more than a regular cleaning because it involves scaling below the gumline and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup. The procedure requires specialized tools, time, and expertise. Additional factors such as anesthetics and X-rays can also increase the cost.
Does insurance cover deep teeth cleaning?
Many dental insurance plans cover deep cleaning, but coverage varies. Some plans pay a percentage of the cost, while others may only cover it if gum disease is diagnosed. Deductibles, copays, and annual limits also impact how much you pay out of pocket.
Is root planing the same as root canal?
No, root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that smooths the tooth’s roots to prevent bacteria buildup and promote gum healing. A root canal is a more invasive treatment that removes infected pulp from inside the tooth to save it from extraction.
Can teeth become loose after deep cleaning?
In some cases, teeth may feel loose temporarily after deep cleaning, especially if there was significant tartar buildup. As gums heal and inflammation reduces, teeth typically stabilize. Severe gum disease, however, may lead to permanent looseness.