Scaling and Root Planing: How Much Does Periodontal Therapy Cost?

Advanced gum disease can’t always be controlled with dental cleanings alone. Scaling and root planing are often necessary to remove the bacteria causing the problem and give the gums a chance to heal and reconnect with the tooth roots. As with any dental procedure, scaling and root planing has its own costs attached. You should never let financial concerns keep you from getting necessary dental care, so it’s a good idea to take the opportunity to learn more about the different factors that can affect scaling and root planing cost.

Why Types of Scaling and Root Planing Are There?

First of all, your dentist will need to determine which type of scaling and root planing they’re performing. Sometimes the treatment is a preventive measure to stop the infection from spreading. Once moderate or severe inflammation affects over 30 percent of the mouth, scaling and root planing are instead considered to be therapeutic measures. This affects the final cost of the procedure as the price of preventive scaling and root planing is based on which quadrants of the mouth per treatment whereas the therapeutic version is based on treating the entire mouth.

Furthermore, either type of scaling and root planing is typically accompanied by other procedures, including:

• A dental checkup.
• Gingival irrigation.
• Antibiotic therapy.
• Follow-up periodontal therapy.
• X-rays.

Your dentist will explain each of these costs as they apply to your treatment and help you form an estimate that you can plan around.

Is Scaling and Root Planing Covered by Insurance?

Different insurance policies have different coverage rates, but most of the time they will cover around half the cost of scaling and root planing, and the treatment itself is often refundable once every two years. That said, it’s important to be aware of your yearly maximums so that you understand the overall limit of coverage that you’re entitled to. Talk to your insurance carrier directly to figure out the details.

How Can You Avoid Scaling and Root Planing?

You can avoid the costs of scaling and root planing altogether simply by preventing gum disease. The best way to do that is to brush and floss at least two times every day while keeping up with regular dental cleanings; this will help you get rid of plaque and tartar before they lead to infections. Using a therapeutic mouthwash can also be beneficial in getting rid of bacteria.

If you still end up with gum disease, scaling and root planing remains a reliable solution, and your dentist can work alongside you to make sure that it’s affordable. Make a call to your practice today if you think you might soon need to fit periodontal therapy into your budget.

About the Practice

At East Islip Dental Care, our entire team, led by Dr. Gar Rosenfeld, consistently goes the extra mile to provide long-term dental solutions that are both convenient and affordable for patients. When scaling and root planing are needed to save your smile from the ill effects of gum disease, we’ll be right there to make sure you fully understand the procedure and the costs it will incur. Set up your first consultation with us today by visiting our website or calling (631) 581-8600.