How much does scaling and root planing cost?

If your dentist recommends scaling and root planing, you may wonder how it works and what it costs. According to the American Dental Association 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, scaling and root planing can cost between $169–$352 per quadrant. A quadrant is 1 of 4 equal sections in the mouth where the dental arches can be divided. The total price can vary on your dental plan, where you live and more.¹

Here’s a deeper look into scaling and root planing. 

Scaling and root planing, also called a “deep cleaning,” is a 2-step process to help treat gum disease. During the first step, scaling, your dentist scrapes off all the plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. This can be done with a metal tool called a dental scaler or an electronic scaler. Electronic scalers use a vibrating metal tip and water spray to chip away tartar and clean gum pockets. 

Once the plaque is removed, your dentist will start root planing. This involves smoothing out the root surfaces to help your gums reattach to your teeth. The same tools for scaling may be used for root planing.  

Note: You may need a local anesthetic before treatment and it could take more than 1 visit to complete.

Preventive vs. therapeutic scaling and root planing

Preventive scaling and root planing can help if gum disease is caught early. Treatment at this time can help prevent serious damage to the teeth and gums. Therapeutic scaling and root planing is done after gum disease has become serious. This treatment is meant to slow or stop the gum disease and prevent tooth loss.

According to the American Dental Association 2020 Survey of Dental Fees, scaling and root planing can cost between $169–$352 per quadrant.¹

The total cost of scaling and root planing can vary for many reasons, including: 

• How many teeth are treated 
• Your dental plan 
• Where you live 
• The dentist or oral surgeon you use
• X-rays (if necessary)
• Anesthesia (if necessary) 

If the scaling and root planing is medically necessary, your dental insurance plan may cover some of the costs. If you don’t have dental insurance, you can use a health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) to pay for medically necessary scaling and root planing. HSAs and FSAs allow you to save money in an account before it’s been taxed to pay for eligible medical expenses.

Also, a dental discount plan might help if you don’t have dental insurance. These plans aren’t dental insurance—they’re a type of membership, like a grocery store club. Instead of getting bargains on food, you get discounted prices on dental services.

If you need scaling and root planing, Humana can help. We offer a broad range of dental plans with varying levels of coverage, many with affordable monthly premiums. Some of our dental plans also feature no waiting periods, which means you could get covered in about 5 days. To see plans and prices in your area, check out our Humana dental insurance page.