Preventive · Dental Cleaning · National Cost

How much does a dental cleaning cost?

Average Dental Cleaning cost in the US: $100-$265

🏥 Based on ADA fee survey data
📊 Population-weighted national average
🔄 Updated May 2026
✓ Reviewed by Pearl clinical team
$100 – $265

Typical Dental Cleaning range across the United States

📍 All 50 states covered 🏥 PPO typically covers up to ortho max

National average

$155

Dental Cleaning · D1110

What is this procedure?

About this procedure

A dental cleaning — clinically called a prophylaxis — is preventive care performed by a dental hygienist. The hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from above and just below the gumline, polishes your teeth to remove surface stains, and may apply fluoride. A standard cleaning takes 30–60 minutes and is recommended every 6 months for most adults.

Standard cleanings are different from "deep cleanings" (scaling and root planing), which are a periodontal treatment for patients with active gum disease. If you've been told you need a deep cleaning, you're in a different procedure category — see our deep-cleaning page.

Price factors

What affects this cost?

  • Cleaning type: A routine prophylaxis costs less than a "gross debridement" for patients who have skipped years of cleanings.
  • Time since last cleaning: Hygienists often need extra time and effort if it's been over a year.
  • Bundled with exam: Some practices bundle cleaning + exam into a flat preventive fee; others bill separately.
  • Local market: Coastal-metro practices typically charge more than midwest or rural practices.
  • DSO vs. boutique: Chain offices usually price below independent practices.

By state

Where does this cost the most and least?

Pearl tracks pricing across all 50 states. Below are the highest and lowest cost markets — click any state for a full state-level cost breakdown across covered cities.

Highest cost states

Lowest cost states

Quote checker

What should your quote include?

Different providers bundle costs differently. Here's what a complete quote typically covers — and what's often left out.

USUALLY INCLUDED IN THE QUOTED PRICE

  • Removal of plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline
  • Polishing to remove surface stains
  • Flossing
  • Brief gum health assessment
  • Optional fluoride treatment (sometimes additional cost)

OFTEN BILLED SEPARATELY — ASK BEFORE YOU AGREE

  • Dental exam by the dentist
  • X-rays
  • Fluoride treatment (in some practices)
  • Periodontal scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
  • Sealants

Health stakes

What happens if you delay treatment?

  • Plaque hardens into tartar that can't be removed at home
  • Tartar buildup leads to gingivitis and eventually periodontal disease
  • Surface stains become harder to remove without polishing
  • Skipping cleanings increases the risk of cavities along the gumline

Before you agree

Questions to ask your provider

  • Is this a routine prophylaxis or a more involved cleaning?
  • Is the dentist's exam included in this fee?
  • Is fluoride treatment included or extra?
  • How long has it been since my last cleaning, and does that change the procedure?
  • What can I do at home to make the next cleaning faster and easier?

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Most adults benefit from a professional cleaning every 6 months. Patients with periodontal disease, restorative work, or higher cavity risk may need cleanings every 3–4 months.
Most PPO dental plans cover two preventive cleanings per year at 100% with no deductible. Plans differ on coverage for additional cleanings beyond the first two.
No. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a periodontal treatment for patients with active gum disease, and is billed at a higher rate per quadrant. A regular cleaning is preventive care for healthy or near-healthy gums.
If your gums show signs of periodontal disease — bleeding, deep pockets, bone loss on x-rays — a routine cleaning won't address the issue. Get a second opinion if you're unsure.
At most practices, yes — cleaning and exam are separate billable procedures. Some practices bundle them as a flat preventive visit fee. Ask before the appointment.

See local pricing

Compare what this costs in your city.

Pearl's cost data covers 485 U.S. cities. Search by procedure and zip — get a localized fee range and what to expect from your insurance.

Find your local price →