While dental cleaning costs usually range from $150-$400, there are 5 key factors affecting prices. Discover what they are and how to reduce expenses. Protect your budget and smile.
It’s all too easy for dental cleanings to fall on the back burner.
Maybe it’s dental fear holding you back.
Or maybe it’s because something as simple as booking a dental cleaning feels like taking a gamble with your wallet.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
In Australia, roughly 30% of people delay or avoid going to the dentist because they’re worried about the cost.
After all, you want to keep your smile bright but you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg to do it. You want to take care of your oral health but you don’t want to be blindsided by sticker shock when you get to the front desk.
Understanding the price of a dental cleaning can help you budget better and avoid these kinds of surprises.
So, how much is a clean at the dentist?
In this guide, we’ll break down how much you can generally expect from teeth cleaning costs. To give you an even better estimate, we’ll also explore five factors that influence dental cleaning costs.
So, how much does dental cleaning actually cost?
Generally, you can expect to pay between $150 and $400 for a professional cleaning. At Elevate Dental, new patients can get a dental check-up and clean for just $299.
Many clinics bundle dental check-ups and cleanings into one service. Some may let you choose just one of these treatments, which could lower the overall cost.
Remember: this is a rough estimate. Exact teeth cleaning costs can vary widely depending on several factors, which we’ll cover in the next section.
From the location of the dental clinic to your medical history, many elements could impact the price you pay for a dental cleaning. Let’s take a closer look at these factors so you know exactly what to expect.
The geographic location of your dental clinic plays a big role in pricing.
Urban clinics often charge more than their rural counterparts. Why? Higher operating costs.
Rent, utilities, and staff wages tend to be steeper in large cities. In turn, they might charge more due to these overheads.
On the flip side, rural clinics often have lower expenses, translating to lower prices for you.
With that said, choosing a clinic farther from home can also mean travel costs. While a rural clinic might seem cheaper, the savings can be offset by these travel expenses.
For example, let’s say you’re living in Richmond, Victoria.
While a rural clinic might seem cheaper, visiting a local Richmond dentist could actually save you time and money. Instead of spending on fuel, parking, or public transport, you may be able to simply walk to your dental clinic — a free and seamless option.
When deciding on a clinic, think carefully about its location.
Although a more distant clinic might seem like a money-saving option, proximity can save you time and travel expenses.
A quick Google search of your local area (e.g. “Richmond dentist”) is a great start in exploring the clinics near you.
Be sure to read online reviews to gauge the reputation of these local clinics. Look for comments on both cost and quality of care.
With a bit of research, you can find a reputable dentist near you that meets your needs.
Certain conditions may require more time, expertise, or special equipment, all of which can increase the price.
For example, if you have gum disease, the cleaning process will usually be more intensive. Additional treatments like scaling and root planing might be needed, which costs more than a standard clean.
Other conditions, like diabetes, can affect oral health and lead to diseases such as tooth loss or oral cancer. If you have a condition like this, it may mean you need more frequent or detailed cleanings.
Past dental work also plays a role. Fillings, crowns, or implants might need extra care during a cleaning to avoid damage. In some circumstances, this can add to the overall cost.
Current medications can influence the teeth cleaning process, too.
Some drugs cause dry mouth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. If you’re taking medications like these, you’ll likely need more thorough cleanings.
When booking an appointment, tell your dentist about your medical history and any medications. This helps them provide the best care and most accurate cost estimate.
Here are some tips for supplying all the necessary information:
Being open and honest about your medical background is the best way to get high-quality care and accurate cost estimates.
Pricing often differs for new patients compared to existing ones. Many clinics offer introductory deals or discounts to attract new patients.
For example, at Elevate Dental, we offer dental check-up and cleans to first-time patients for just $299.
Existing patients, on the other hand, may not have access to these introductory discounts.
With that said, being a regular patient has its benefits.
Sticking with the same clinic means your dentist knows your medical and dental history. This familiarity can lead to better, more personalised care.
Plus, loyalty programs or periodic discounts for regular check-ups are sometimes available to long-term patients. Many clinics even offer payment plans or membership programs to provide savings to returning patients.
Finding the best deals as a new patient requires a bit of research and smart questioning. Here’s how to go about it:
By following these steps, you can find the best deals and make an informed decision about your dental care as a new patient.
Clinics use various materials like fluoride, polish, and sealants. Fluoride strengthens teeth and prevents cavities. Polishing paste removes surface stains, giving you a brighter smile. Sealants protect teeth from decay, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
Each one of these materials can add to the cost of your treatment. Higher-quality or specialised products can increase the price but often provide better results.
The time factor is important, too. A more thorough cleaning takes longer — usually costs more.
For example, if you have plaque buildup or special dental appliances (like braces or a permanent retainer), the dentist may need more time to do your cleaning.
In general, the more time they spend, the higher the price.
When booking your appointment, ask about the materials required for your cleaning.
Always discuss with your dentist which materials are going to be used and their benefits to make sure you get the best value for your money.
During this conversation, your dentist can also provide a time estimate for your appointment.
Teeth cleanings usually take 30 minutes to an hour. Ask your dentist if this will be the case for your appointment. If it’s expected to take longer, your dentist will explain why this is and how long you can expect the treatment to take.
Dental care is not typically covered by Medicare. So, having private dental insurance can greatly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Insurance plans often cover a portion, if not all, of routine dental cleaning costs. This can make regular visits more affordable.
Insurance plans vary widely in what they cover. Some plans pay for bi-annual cleanings and check-ups, while others might include fluoride treatments and X-rays.
Coverage for additional treatments, like scaling or sealants, can also differ.
If you don’t have private dental insurance, you’ll need to cover your teeth cleaning costs in full.
Before your dental cleaning, check with your insurance provider to see what’s covered under your plan. Knowing your coverage can help you avoid unexpected costs and budget for any additional treatments you might need.
It’s also worth asking about annual maximums and any out-of-pocket expenses you might incur.
Try to use dentists within your insurance network so you get the highest level of coverage and lowest out-of-pocket costs.
Not sure which dentists are in your insurance network? Your provider will be able to help you out with this.
If you don’t already have private dental insurance, it’s worth exploring. You can learn more about private health insurance in Australia here.
Ultimately, the answer to, “How much is a clean at the dentist?” isn’t always a simple one. The cost can vary depending on many factors, including:
By understanding these factors and following the steps above, you can keep your smile bright without breaking the bank.
Book your checkup & clean or a Free Smile Consultation at our Richmond clinic. Same-day appointments may be available.
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