Scale and Root Planing Cost

It is a little-known fact that our mouths are as unique to us as our fingerprints. When we discuss the costs of dental procedures there are numerous factors that go into those procedures, often times based on the health of your mouth and the severity of the condition being treated. Scale and root planing, often called deep cleaning, also has various components in the process. We’ll clarify why you might need scaling and root planing, the process and the individual component costs that can establish a range for costs, and the benefits in having the procedure.

The Reasons Why You Might Need a Scale and Root Planing Procedure

Biologically speaking each of us have millions of bacteria in our mouths every day. If not kept in check these bacteria will begin to stick to our teeth creating a clear sticky substance called plaque. The plaque harbors damaging sugars and acids that will then attack the enamel of the tooth resulting in decay and cavities. If you exercise the suggested practice of brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day you remove that plaque daily. If you do not and allow it to remain and build it will drift down the tooth, below the gumline, and now infect the soft tissue of the gums immediately resulting in gum disease, or periodontal disease. The only way to stymie gum disease and reverse it is to remove the source of the infection, the plaque.

The Deep Cleaning Procedure

When we see our dentist twice a year as recommended the evaluation is usually concluded with a professional cleaning of the teeth. This final step can cost anywhere from $75 to $200 depending on the amount of plaque that needs to be removed. The dentist or hygienist uses a handheld scaling tool to methodically scrape the plaque from the tooth. Some offices might have an ultrasonic vibrating tool to chip away the plaque and even more stubborn tartar. If the plaque looks like it goes down the tooth the next step might include x-rays to see below the surface. These x-rays might add $25 to $250. If the gum disease has advanced the next step might include local anesthetic to numb the tissue through the process. This step might add around $300. The balance of the procedure is simply based on time and how much plaque must be removed from below the surface.

The Benefits of The Scale and Root Planing Process

A national average for this procedure is from $150 to $450. This is per quadrant, which might include four teeth at a time. It is possible that this procedure is only necessary on several teeth. With a brief healing period your gums will return to a healthy normal. The inflammation will subside, the color will return to a healthy pink and the tissue will tighten up around the teeth again eliminating the sagging. The biggest benefit beyond that of a healthy mouth and healthy smile is for yourself to realize that the process can totally be avoided with good, proper oral hygiene habits. Take care of your teeth and gums and avoid deep cleaning.

More on Scale & Root Planing : Deep Teeth Cleaning Aftercare