Scaling and Root Planing Cost
Most frequently referred to simply as a deep cleaning, dental scaling, and root planing are procedures performed together that can effectively fend off and even reverse the progression of gum disease. Gingivitis and periodontitis – the first and second stages of gum disease – happen when plaque is allowed to build up on the teeth over time. This usually occurs due to an extended amount of time absent from the regular care of a dentist, as regular dental cleanings are the primary mode by which this build-up is routinely removed.
Regular brushing and flossing can help keep plaque and tartar at bay. Still, they can’t fully prevent it, nor can either of these practices remove dental calculus that has hardened into deposits. Over time, the bacteria present in this hardened detritus damages the gums and causes them to pull away from the teeth. At this point, it then has access to small pockets below the gums. Once this happens, a deep cleaning involving scaling and root planing is the only way to remove it.
Contributing Factors to the Cost of Scaling and Root Planing
Number of Visits
Scaling and root planing are typically performed over two to four visits, during which the dentist will address either one quarter or one half of the mouth. This is to minimize the discomfort that can be a part of this deep cleaning procedure and in coordination with dental insurance companies, many of which will not pay for an entire scaling and root planing procedure to be done at one time.
A follow-up visit is also an important step, allowing your dentist to check on how effective the scaling and root planing procedure was in treating gum disease.
Additional Procedures
Put simply, scaling, and root planing costs more than routine dental cleaning, not only because it involves a more comprehensive cleaning procedure that takes place over multiple visits but also because they involve elements that are not part of routine cleaning.
To reduce the discomfort of a scaling and root planing visit, dentists often administer local anesthetic. They might also use X-rays to get a better sense of any bone loss that may have occurred as the result of gum disease before beginning the procedure. Additionally, they must do periodontal charting to keep track of the areas of the mouth in which gum disease has set in and progressed so that they can check on those areas in future visits.
Medications
Finally, dentists must sometimes use antibiotics to treat any oral infections that are lurking below the gumline. They might also recommend a prescription mouthwash to be used in the days or even weeks following the procedure.
Overall Cost of Scaling and Root Planing
The overall cost of scaling and root planing can vary depending on location, the severity of the gum disease being treated, and the type of dental professional performing the deep cleaning. On average, however, the total cost can range from $200-450.
While this may seem like a lot of money for a cleaning, it is a very important preventative and even therapeutic treatment that can fend off much worse problems in the future, so if a dental professional has recommended this procedure to you, please rest assured that it is a sound investment in your oral health.