Scaling and root planing are common procedures used to treat gum disease. When they’re recommended to you, it’s usually because your teeth and gums are already at risk. But of course, every procedure has a cost to consider, and it’s important to have a firm idea of how much you’ll end up paying for your periodontal deep cleaning before you make any sort of long-term plans. In this post, you can learn more about the factors that contribute to scaling and root planing cost – as well as what you can do to avoid having to pay for such treatment in the first place.
Factors That Affect Scaling and Root Planing Cost
When it comes to cost, it’s important to note that scaling and root planing may involve cleaning specific quadrants of the mouth according to the location of your gum disease or it may involve the entire mouth. As such, a scaling and root planing procedure can be more or less costly depending on how many quadrants need to be treated.
You also need to consider other procedures that might be required before or after root planing is performed. This may include (but is not limited to) a full examination, any necessary X-rays, and whatever periodontal surgery or maintenance is required afterwards. Your periodontists will explain these costs to you before performing the deep cleaning.
Is Scaling and Root Planing Covered by Dental Insurance?
Scaling and root planing are usually covered by your insurance. A typical insurance policy covers between 50% and 80% of the cost of scaling and root planing, though you’ll need to check with your insurance provider to confirm. In most cases, coverage is only provided after a comprehensive periodontal evaluation has been performed and a full-mouth series of x-rays has been taken first.
How Can You Avoid Having to Pay for Scaling and Root Planing?
If you don’t want to have to fit scaling and root planing into your budget, your best option is to prevent gum disease altogether. You can keep your gums healthy by:
- Flossing and brushing at least twice a day
- Getting regular dental cleanings
- Ceasing any tobacco use
Of course, even with your best efforts, gum disease can still occur. When it does, you’re more likely to save money by having it treated right away instead of putting it off. Call your periodontist today if you have doubts about the health of your gums.
About the Author
Dr. Alexander Schrott is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and has been board-certified by the American and German Boards of Periodontology. Among his services, he offers scaling and root planing as a non-surgical treatment for gum disease; he can also provide antimicrobial therapy and different forms of periodontal maintenance. To schedule an appointment to discuss the potential costs of periodontal therapy, visit his website or call (617) 484-9240.