Dr. James Ko's commitment to excellence shines through his achievements as a Doctor of Dental Surgery, paired with a Master's in Science, both earned from the esteemed University of Toronto. His research has delved into the realm of Biomaterials, leading to a published paper focusing on the interplay between dental implant surfaces and bone. Dr. Ko's patient-centred approach is exceptional, as he invests time in building strong connections with patients, alleviating their concerns, and offering practical strategies to enhance their dental well-being. Embracing a holistic approach, he caters to patients of diverse age groups.
How much does a dental cleaning cost in Markham?
A routine dental cleaning is one of the most common dental procedures and one of the most searched for. Whether you are a new patient trying to understand what you will pay, or a current patient wondering whether your insurance covers the full cost, this guide gives you clear, honest answers.
Markham Smile Centre provides comprehensive dental cleaning services in Markham , Ontario. This article breaks down the costs of regular, deep, and child cleanings, with and without insurance, so you can walk in knowing exactly what to expect.
Key takeaways
- A standard adult dental cleaning in Ontario typically costs $150–$350 without insurance, depending on the clinic and whether X-rays are included.
- Most private dental insurance plans cover dental cleanings 100% or at 80–90%, depending on your plan.
- The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers preventive cleanings for eligible patients. Markham Smile Centre accepts CDCP and offers direct billing.
- A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) typically costs $200–$500 per quadrant because it is a therapeutic procedure rather than a routine one.
- Child dental cleanings are covered under the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program for eligible families, and under CDCP for qualifying children.
- Markham Smile Centre offers direct billing to most major insurers. You do not need to pay up front and wait for reimbursement.
- If you have no insurance, flexible payment plans are available.
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What is a dental cleaning, and what does it include?
A dental cleaning, formally called a prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure performed by a dental hygienist. Most adults should have a cleaning every six months, although your dentist may recommend a different schedule based on your individual oral health.
What is included in a standard dental cleaning?
- Removal of plaque (soft deposits) and calculus (hardened tartar) from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline
- Polishing with a prophy paste to remove surface stains
- Flossing between all teeth
- Fluoride treatment (optional, may be an additional fee)
- Oral cancer screening (typically included in a comprehensive exam at the same visit)
A routine cleaning is a preventive service. It is fundamentally different from a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), which is a therapeutic treatment for gum disease. If your hygienist recommends a deep cleaning, it means your gums have signs of periodontal disease that require a more intensive approach. See our article on what to expect during scaling and root planing for a full explanation of the procedure and recovery.
Dental cleaning costs in Markham at a glance
| Service | Typical cost (no insurance) | With private insurance | With CDCP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard adult cleaning (prophylaxis) | $150 – $350 | Often $0–$70 (plan-dependent) | Covered for eligible patients |
| Child cleaning (under 18) | $80 – $180 | Often $0–$36 (plan-dependent) | Covered for eligible patients |
| Deep cleaning/scaling & root planing (per quadrant) | $200 – $500+ | Partial coverage — varies by plan | Partial coverage for eligible patients |
| Full-mouth debridement (initial heavy tartar) | $150 – $300 | Partial coverage — varies by plan | Partial coverage |
| X-rays (bitewing, if required at the same visit) | $50 – $150 | Often covered under diagnostic benefit | Covered for eligible patients |
| Fluoride treatment (adults) | $30 – $60 | Not always covered — check your plan | Limited coverage |
Note: All fees listed are approximate and based on the current Ontario Dental Association (ODA) fee guide. Your actual cost will depend on your specific treatment needs, the time required, and your insurance coverage. Call us for a precise estimate before your appointment.
Does dental insurance cover teeth cleaning in Markham?
For most patients with private dental insurance, a routine cleaning is either fully covered or covered at 80–100%. Here is how the main coverage types work in Ontario in 2025–2026.
Private dental insurance
Most employer-sponsored dental benefit plans (Sun Life, Manulife, Great-West Life, Green Shield, and others) include preventive benefits that cover routine cleanings every six months. Coverage is typically 80–100% of the ODA fee guide, meaning most patients pay little to nothing for a standard cleaning.
Markham Smile Centre offers direct billing to all major insurers you will not need to pay the full amount upfront. Bring your insurance card, and we will verify your coverage before your appointment.
The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)
The federal Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers preventive dental services, including cleanings, for eligible Canadians without private dental insurance whose household income falls below the eligibility threshold. Markham Smile Centre is a CDCP-accepting dentist in Markham and offers direct billing through the program.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for CDCP, call our office, and we can help you check your eligibility before your appointment.
OHIP and dental cleanings
OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) does not cover routine dental cleanings or any dental treatment performed in a dental office. This applies regardless of age or income. The only dental procedures OHIP covers are those performed in a hospital setting for medically necessary reasons (for example, oral surgery related to a jaw fracture or systemic condition).
No insurance? Payment plans are available
If you do not have dental insurance, Markham Smile Centre offers flexible dental financing options to help spread the cost of your treatment. We believe that cost should not be a barrier to preventive care. A cleaning today is always less expensive than the restorative treatment needed if problems are left to develop.
Insurance coverage summary for dental cleanings — Ontario 2025
| Coverage type | Cleaning covered? | Frequency | Direct billing at Markham Smile Centre? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private insurance (Sun Life, Manulife, etc.) | Yes — 80–100% typically | Every 6 months (plan-dependent) | Yes |
| CDCP (Canadian Dental Care Plan) | Yes — for eligible patients | As per the CDCP schedule | Yes |
| OHIP | No | N/A | N/A |
| No insurance | Full cost out-of-pocket | N/A | Payment plans available |
"Preventive care is always the most cost-effective dentistry. A $200 cleaning that catches early gum disease before it progresses saves a patient from spending $2,000–$5,000 on periodontal treatment or implants down the road. When patients ask me if a cleaning is worth the cost — with or without insurance — my answer is always yes."
— Dr. James Ko, DDS — Markham Smile Centre
Standard cleaning vs deep cleaning: what is the difference in cost?
One of the most common points of confusion for patients is the difference between a routine cleaning and a deep cleaning. The two procedures serve different purposes, involve different techniques, and carry significantly different costs.
| Standard cleaning (prophylaxis) | Deep cleaning (scaling & root planing) | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Preventive maintenance for healthy gums | Therapeutic — treating early to moderate gum disease |
| Who it is for | Patients with healthy gums or mild gingivitis | Patients with periodontitis or pockets > 4mm |
| Procedure | Removes plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline | Removes tartar from deep within the gum pockets and smooths the root surface |
| Anaesthetic | Usually not required | Local anaesthetic typically used |
| Cost (no insurance) | $150 – $350 per visit | $200 – $500 per quadrant (mouth has 4 quadrants) |
| Insurance coverage | Usually 80–100% | Partial — varies by plan |
| Sessions required | 1 visit | Usually 2 visits (upper and lower jaw separately) |
If your hygienist has recommended a deep cleaning, see our detailed article on what to expect during scaling and root planing for a full explanation of the procedure, recovery, and what it treats. You can also learn more about our non-surgical gum therapy services.
How often do you need a dental cleaning?
Most adults benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. However, the right frequency for you depends on your oral and gum health and history.
| Patient type | Recommended frequency | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy adult with no gum disease | Every 6 months | Standard preventive maintenance |
| Patient with a history of gum disease | Every 3–4 months | More frequent monitoring reduces re-infection risk |
| Child (ages 6–18) | Every 6 months | Prevents cavities during the development of adult teeth |
| Adult with braces or orthodontic appliances | Every 3–6 months | More plaque accumulates around brackets and wires |
| Smoker | Every 3–6 months | Higher risk of gum disease and oral cancer |
| Diabetic patient | Every 3–6 months | Bidirectional link between diabetes and gum disease |
Not sure how often you should come in? Book a new-patient appointment or call us — our hygienists will assess your gum health and recommend the right schedule for you.
Why regular cleanings save you money in the long run
The cost of a cleaning, even out-of-pocket, is one of the best investments in your oral health. Consider what it compares to:
| Skipping cleanings can lead to… | Approximate cost in Ontario (no insurance) |
|---|---|
| Cavities requiring composite filling | $150 – $300 per tooth |
| Root canal treatment | $800 – $1,500+ |
| Crown after root canal | $1,200 – $2,000+ |
| Scaling and root planing (gum disease treatment) | $800 – $2,000+ (full mouth) |
| Dental implant (replacing a lost tooth) | $3,000 – $6,000+ per tooth |
Learn more about the health benefits of getting your teeth cleaned , including systemic benefits beyond oral health.
"Patients often delay a cleaning because of the cost, and end up needing a filling or a root canal that costs ten times as much. I always tell patients: a cleaning is not an expense — it is the most affordable dental procedure you will ever have, and it is the one that prevents everything else."
— Dr. Camila Villarreal, DDS — Markham Smile Centre
What to expect at your dental cleaning appointment at Markham Smile Centre
If you have not had a professional cleaning in a while or if this is your first visit to our clinic, here is what a typical appointment looks like.
- Check-in and health history review — our team will review or update your medical and dental history, including any medications or conditions that may affect your oral health.
- Periodontal assessment — your hygienist will gently measure the depth of the pockets around each tooth using a small probe. This takes about 3–5 minutes and helps us detect early gum disease before it causes visible symptoms.
- Scaling — using ultrasonic and hand scalers, your hygienist removes plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from all tooth surfaces, including below the gumline.
- Polishing — a prophy cup and a mildly abrasive paste remove light surface stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth.
- Flossing — between every tooth.
- Fluoride treatment (optional) — a professionally applied fluoride varnish or gel that strengthens enamel. Takes less than two minutes.
- Oral health review — your hygienist will discuss findings, answer your questions, and recommend a recall schedule.
- Dentist exam (if scheduled at the same appointment) — one of our dentists will perform a comprehensive oral exam, including any required X-rays. The exam and cleaning may be combined into one appointment or scheduled separately.
Appointment duration: A standard adult cleaning with a hygienist typically takes 45–60 minutes. If X-rays and a dental exam are included, allow 60–90 minutes for a new patient appointment.
New to Markham Smile Centre? What do new patients pay for a first cleaning
New patient appointments at Markham Smile Centre typically include a comprehensive exam, full-mouth X-rays, and a cleaning either at the same appointment or scheduled as a follow-up, depending on the amount of buildup present and the time available.
For new patients with heavy tartar buildup or who have not been to a dentist in several years, a full-mouth debridement may be performed first. This is an initial heavy cleaning that removes dense deposits before a more thorough assessment can be completed. Your hygienist will explain exactly what is recommended and what the cost will be before beginning any treatment.
CDCP patients: Markham Smile Centre is a registered CDCP provider. If you are eligible under the Canadian Dental Care Plan, a routine cleaning is covered at no cost to you. Bring your CDCP membership number, and we will verify it and bill you directly.
No insurance? Mention it when you book. We will provide a clear estimate before your appointment and can discuss flexible payment plans to manage the cost.
For new patients with heavy tartar buildup or who have not been to a dentist in several years, a full-mouth debridement may be performed first. This is an initial heavy cleaning that removes dense deposits before a more thorough assessment can be completed. Your hygienist will explain exactly what is recommended and what the cost will be before beginning any treatment.
|
CDCP patients: Markham Smile Centre is a registered CDCP provider. If you are eligible under the Canadian Dental Care Plan, a routine cleaning is covered at no cost to you. Bring your CDCP membership number, and we will verify it and bill you directly. No insurance? Mention it when you book. We will provide a clear estimate before your appointment and can discuss flexible payment plans to manage the cost. |
Frequently asked questions about dental cleaning costs in Markham
How much does a dental cleaning cost in Markham without insurance?
A standard adult cleaning at a Markham dental clinic typically costs between $150 and $350, depending on the time required and whether X-rays are taken. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is significantly more expensive, $200–$500 per quadrant, because it is a therapeutic procedure requiring more time and skill. For a precise estimate, call us before your appointment.
Is teeth cleaning covered by OHIP?
No. OHIP does not cover dental cleanings or any dental procedure performed in a dental office. OHIP covers only dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting for medically necessary reasons. However, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) does cover cleanings for eligible patients.
Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover dental cleanings?
Yes. The CDCP covers preventive dental services, including cleanings for eligible patients. Markham Smile Centre accepts CDCP and offers direct billing. Visit our CDCP dentist page for full details on what is covered and how to use your benefits.
How often does insurance cover a dental cleaning?
Most private dental benefit plans cover cleanings every six months (two per year). Some plans cover only one cleaning per year. Check your plan documents or call your insurer. We can also verify your coverage when you book your appointment.
What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque and tartar from healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a therapeutic treatment for gum disease — it cleans deep below the gumline into infected pockets. A deep cleaning costs significantly more and is usually done under local anesthetic. See our full guide to deep cleaning, scaling and root planing for details.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
A routine adult cleaning takes 45–60 minutes. If X-rays and a dental exam are included, a new patient appointment typically takes 60–90 minutes. For patients with significant tartar buildup, the hygienist may need more time or may recommend scheduling the cleaning over two appointments.
Do I need an exam at the same appointment as my cleaning?
A dental exam is not always required at the same appointment as a cleaning, but it is strongly recommended at least once a year. X-rays and a clinical exam by a dentist allow us to detect cavities, bone loss, and other conditions that a cleaning alone does not address. Your hygienist will advise whether a same-day exam is recommended based on your history and how long it has been since your last visit.
Can I get a dental cleaning if I have not been to the dentist in years?
Yes. If it has been several years since your last cleaning, your hygienist may recommend a full-mouth debridement first, an initial cleaning to remove dense tartar buildup, followed by a standard cleaning at a second appointment. There is no judgment at Markham Smile Centre; our goal is simply to get your oral health back on track.
Does Markham Smile Centre offer payment plans for dental cleanings?
Yes. If you do not have insurance or your coverage does not cover the full cost, we offer flexible dental financing to help you spread the cost of your treatment. Ask about payment plan options when you call.
See what our patients are saying:
Everyone here is very friendly and provides excellent care. I received a full exam on my first visit, and everyone took time to answer my questions and ensured I felt comfortable the entire time - exactly what you want when visiting the dentist. I highly recommend Markham Smile Centre for anyone looking for great dental care.
There is an ample parking space before you get into the office. The receptionists welcome us friendly with proper COVID-19 procedures in place. The staff worked with patient very patiently and professionally. My teeth cleaning was done by Ying, she explained every detail to me and I did not feel any pain or uncomfortable at all. Thanks to the best team !
It's been a while since I've been to a dentist but I'm trying to get back on track with health in general. Overall it was great going to Markham Smile Centre! The receptionist (I believe she was Kim) was friendly. The hygienist, Ying, was attentive and gentle during the cleaning; x-ray tech (forgot her name, sorry!) was great too. Dr. Sara Riad explained things with good detail. Looking forward to going back!
I was someone who was nervous and anxious about visiting the dentist, but the team at Markham Smile Centre has made me feel SO comfortable. Kim is so patient and helpful and Dr. Hwang and Rory are both so professional and wonderful. They thoroughly explain the procedure to make you comfortable beforehand and are very gentle. I now look forward to visiting the dentist!
I found this place on a whim when I was looking for a new dentist in Markham. My hygienist ying was super nice and her cleaning was very gentle yet thorough. I saw Dr.Jason and he was very nice and informative in regards to what needs to be done and provided me with all the information I needed to make a choice. Would recommend this place to anyone looking for a new dentist, they’re accepting new patients!!
I have been to many dentists in my life, Dr. Jason is easily the best dentist I have ever been too. He does everything he can to make you comfortable no matter the procedure and is a true professional, as does all the staff at Markham Smile Centre. Truly an amazing dentistry
The clinic was clean and the staff was very polite. I particularly liked the fact that everything was explained to me before going in for the procedure so I knew what to expect at each step. The dental hygienist who did the cleaning for me was also very gentle and took my concerns into consideration. I will definitely recommend them.
Upon arriving to the Markham Smile Centre, my son and I were greeted with a warm welcome by the receptionists. The hygienists and Dentist were very gentle and transparent with what they were doing. The hygienist that worked on my 9 year old son was patient and very friendly with him, which helped ease his nerves. Our overall experience was A+.
Since I was little, I have always hated going to the dentist... Its always uncomfortable and unpleasant. These days, visiting the dentist isn’t so bad! Dr Jason, Rory, and the lovely staff at reception make the experience 100x better. I have had absolutely no issues with the gum graft and cleanings that I’ve gotten done here. Everyone is incredibly friendly and helpful, even when I’m calling in or emailing a hundred questions :). I would highly recommend Markham Smile Centre.
Love this place! All the staffs are friendly and Professional and I mean all, cause I've been to most of their office, Markham , Stouffville, North York, and Maple. Dr. Ko is very professional and patient. Whenever I have questions and concerns he would always reply me . I would say this this dental office take care of you all the way. I would highly recommend everyone to come here for any dental works. =)
