I have been negligent with my teeth cleaning for the last 3 years. Prior to that I have had them cleaned at least once and some years twice due to excessive plaque buildup. Today I went to a new dentist in my area and after taking full xrays they recommeded I see a specialist on a 4 year old root canal. They say it has an abcess. They also say I have periodental problems and that I need scaling to the tune of 389.00 per upper and lower phase. Then I need to follow up in four weeks for another evaluation and cleaning every 3 months thereafter. My readings were 3-6. I'd say averave was 4. Does this sound reasonable? Is there any other alternatives?

The price you were quoted for the scaling sounds reasonable to me. I don't think there is any alternative to this. The hardened plaque must be removed so you don't get more build up and even deeper pockets. I had a scaling done last January and it wasn't bad at all, my dentist said I need to get a cleaning done every 6 months, my previous dentist always told me my teeth were fine and i had hardly any tartar! Maybe not on my teeth but under the gumline, I DID! So I was very upset when I heard this. Periodontal disease is the number one reason for tooth loss in adults, not cavities! If cost is an issue, maybe you can go to a local dental school? A friend of mine did this and has been very pleased with the care he has gotten there. Good luck to you!

I had 4 quadrants done for $250 each several years ago - so that does sound reasonable. Its not bad - will actually make your teeth and gums feel cleaner than they ever did - although the sound of the scrapping is awful - so I put cotton in my ears while he did it. I went for checkups and cleanings every 4 months afterwards. My sister has done this 2 times already - its much better than having the dreaded flap or open gum surgery to clean the bone - which is often required if the periodontal disease is not kept in check or caught early enough.