The Going Rate of a Scaling and Root Planing

If you’re investigating the cost of a scaling and root planing treatment, odds are you suspect or already know you have gum disease. This can be a distressing prospect all on its own. The last thing you want is to have to worry about affording a cure!

Pinning down the going rate for any dental service can be tricky, but don’t worry. We’ll lay out everything you need to know – without using confusing jargon or making you break out a calculator.

Why is It So Difficult to Find a Scaling and Root Planing Price Tag?

It goes without saying that it’s much easier to budget for things with a tangible price tag. Unfortunately, dental treatments aren’t like a can of ravioli. Your dentist can’t mass-produce a one-size-fits-all solution and put it on a shelf! There are many factors that could influence your overall costs, including:

• Potential preliminary procedures
• Whether you’ll need additional treatments or follow ups
• The extent of your gum disease

If your gum disease is mild, you’ll likely receive a preventive scaling, which is charged based on how many teeth need cleaned in each dental quadrant. If you have a more advanced case, you’ll likely receive therapeutic scaling, which treats your whole mouth under one fixed price. When all is said and done, the average cost of a scaling and root planing treatment alone is between $200 and $300.

How to Minimize the Cost of Gum Disease

Since a scaling and root planing treatment is pretty vital for your oral health, your dental insurance might cover at least part of the cost. Another money-saving option is to apply for flexible financing. Programs like CareCredit will break your grand total down into smaller chunks. Instead of handing over all your money upfront, you’ll make payments in monthly installments – like a subscription plan.

How to Minimize Gum Disease Costs in The Future

One of the scary things about gum disease is that it can come back if you’re not careful. Obviously, the best way to cut down on costs would be to avoid needing treatment altogether! Here’s what you can do to shift the odds in your favor:

• Floss daily
• Brush twice a day, for at least two minutes each session
• Use a fluoride-based toothpaste
• Incorporate an antibacterial mouth rinse into your cleaning routine
• Visit your dentist biannually for checkups and cleanings

Keeping tabs on the state of your gums will help you and your dentist identify gum disease before it grows out of control. And as a specialist with special equipment, your dentist can thoroughly scrub bacteria from your mouth. Here’s the great thing about checkups and cleanings: since they’re considered preventative care, your insurance will likely pay 90% – 100% of the cost! Now that’s smart economics.

About the Author

Dr. Terry F. Rakowsky treats his patients with respect and compassion – you won’t find any judgement here! He knows that each patient’s oral – and financial – situation is unique. That’s why he proudly accepts most major insurance plans and offers CareCredit financing. If you have questions or concerns, call his office at 215-348-2224. Dr. Rakowsky and his team will diligently work with you and your needs to make sure you get the best care possible!