How Many Teeth Cleanings Does Insurance Cover Per Year?
Many dental plans cover two cleanings per year, usually about six months apart. Plans vary, though, so the number on yours could be different.
What to Check on Your Plan
Look for how many cleanings are covered, whether there’s a required gap between them, and what percentage the plan pays. Preventive care like cleanings and exams is often covered at a higher percentage than other types of care, but that’s a plan-by-plan detail.
How to Check Your Plan
It only takes a few minutes. Log in to your insurance provider’s website or app, where your benefits summary usually lists covered services and how many you’ve used. You can also call the member services number on the back of your insurance card. If your plan comes through work, your employer’s HR or benefits team can point you to the details.
If you call, these questions get you what you need:
- How many cleanings does my plan cover each year?
- Is there a minimum amount of time required between cleanings?
- What percentage is covered, and does it count toward my annual maximum?
- How many cleanings have I used so far this year?
What If I’m Due for More Than Two?
Some patients need cleanings more often because of gum health or other needs. If your dentist recommends additional visits, ask your insurance provider how those are handled. Coverage for extra cleanings, or for a different type of cleaning, can look different from a routine one.
Haven’t Used Your Cleanings Yet?
Cleanings don’t carry over, so if you haven’t used yours, now is the time. Not sure what to expect? We’ve got a page on what a cleaning involves and one on how long it takes.
Coverage varies by plan. Check with your insurance provider for the details of your benefits.