How Much Is It To Get Your Teeth Cleaned

Dental Cleaning Cost

No Dental Insurance Cleanings

Do you need a teeth cleaning but can't afford it without insurance? The average cost of a dental cleaning usually isn't too expensive, but they can be more than you can afford without dental insurance.

In this article, we'll go into more detail about dental cleaning costs, why making sure you can afford dental cleanings is important, and how to save on teeth cleaning costs without dental insurance.

See the Best Dental
Plan for Cleanings

See exact procedure prices
online (not estimates)

All our representatives are U.S.based

How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost?

A dental cleaning costs anywhere from $75 to $400 with no insurance, depending on the age of the patient and the type of cleaning needed. However, the answer to "How much is a dental cleaning?" varies significantly based on various factors, such as the region you live in and whether you have insurance. For instance, based on our estimates, and depending on the kind, a periodontal "deep cleaning" for your teeth can cost anywhere between $200 and $1500.

Keep reading to learn more about what determines how much a dental cleaning costs and what to expect during your visit, so you can financially plan for your treatment.

Samples of what you'll save

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The discounted prices you see are the exact prices at the general dentist for your state.

Learn more about the best savings at general dentists and see exact pricing in your area with the Care 500 plan. Or see the best savings at specialists with the Dental Access Plan(powered by the Aetna Dental Access network).

How Much Is a Dental Cleaning without Insurance?

Based on regional average costs of routine dental cleaning without insurance (based on averages from Los Angeles, Orlando, Chicago, and New York City), an adult cleaning typically costs about $127, while a child's cleaning costs about $93.

However, you can save significantly with a dental savings plan like the Dental Access Plan, which reduces these costs to approximately $68 and $51, respectively. Similarly, you could potentially pay as little as $160 (compared to $274 for a deep cleaning/scaling and root planing), saving over $100. With a dental savings plan, you can virtually cut the cost of treatment in half, without even having insurance.

If you still have questions like "How much are braces without insurance?" or "How much does a crown cost?", we can help you find ways to save if you don't have insurance. Learn more about the best savings at general dentists and see exact pricing in your area with the Care 500 Plan. Or see the best savings at specialists with the Dental Access Plan (powered by the Aetna Dental Access network).

How to Save Money on Dental Cleanings

We understand that affordable dental care might seem out of your grasp, but there are several ways to save money on dental cleanings:

A dental savings plan can directly reduce the cost of your dental cleanings, allowing you to save substantially throughout the year. Our plans can offer savings of 15 to 60% at general dentists and 15 to 50% at specialists. 1Dental has several dental plan options that can help make dental care more affordable.

Ask about payment plans.

Many dentists allow financially struggling patients to make multiple payments to break up the cost of dental treatments. For instance, they might allow you to make two consecutive payments instead of one. Ask your dentist if you can arrange a payment plan for your bi-annual dental cleanings.

Get an insurance policy.

In some cases, teeth cleanings are completely covered through dental insurance. However, even if they're not, the cost of your visit will likely be much less if you have insurance. Plus, you can combine your insurance with your dental savings plan, meaning you'll pay even less.

These methods can also help you save on crowns, braces, and tooth extraction costs, among other dental expenses.

Factors That Impact Dental Cleaning Costs

The cost of dental care, including teeth cleaning costs, are always subject to your personal circumstances. That's because dental treatments can be influenced by several factors, including:

State of your oral health
Location of your dentist
Your insurance coverage

Additionally, many dentists offer discounts or specials to encourage regular cleanings, so that may mean lower teeth cleaning costs.

Additional Dental Cleaning Costs

Depending on certain circumstances, your dental cleaning may cost more than average. For example, you may end up paying more if:

It's your first visit and the teeth cleaning is part of your first exam
You have extensive plaque or tartar build-up
You need local anesthetic
Other unforeseen issues require immediate care

The real answer to "How much is a teeth cleaning?" or "How much is an appointment at the dentist?" is that it depends on the level of care you need. When it comes to dental cleaning costs, it's typically on the lower end of the spectrum, but keep in mind that these factors can impact how much you pay out of pocket.

Why Do I Need to Get a Cleaning?

As part of your ongoing dental care, dentists recommend dental cleanings every six months for a number of reasons, including:

Preventing gum disease: Dental cleanings and periodontitis go hand in hand. Dentists can remove plaque that you have missed when you go in for regular dental checkups, which can prevent gum disease and keep your mouth healthy.
Keeping your teeth properly supported: If gum disease is left unchecked, plaque will move further into the tooth root and destroy the supporting bone, which can loosen teeth and make them fall out.
Maintaining a white smile: Foods, drinks, and bad habits like smoking can all stain your teeth. Having your dentist clean your teeth can help remove build-up and keep them whiter.
Preventing bad breath: Undergoing a dental cleaning promotes good oral hygiene by removing plaque and bacteria, which is key to preventing bad breath.
Improving your overall health: Undergoing a dental cleaning promotes good oral hygiene by removing plaque and bacteria, which is key to preventing bad breath.

Additionally, teeth cleanings are usually a standard part of the first dental visit for adults. All in all, dental cleanings are an essential component of preventative dentistry.

Maintaining your oral health is a worthwhile investment, so you don't find yourself having to ask, "How much does it cost to get your teeth fixed?" Spending the money two times a year on your dental cleanings is significantly less expensive than the reconstructive procedures that might be necessary if you don't.

Types of Cleanings

There are a few different types of cleanings that a dentist may perform. It depends on your age and the health of your mouth. Here are the four types of cleanings:

Children's Cleanings: Children should first see the dentist when they are one year old, or after their first tooth comes in. By the time they're three or four years old, they will begin having cleanings. These cleanings are catered to the children to make them feel more comfortable. When children go in for cleanings, dentists will usually give their assessment of the child's oral health and what needs to be done to improve it; they'll also talk about orthodontic concerns if there are any.
Regular Adult Teeth Cleanings: For adults who have healthy gums, or even early gingivitis without bone loss, a regular adult cleaning is all that's necessary. Your dentist will remove any plaque, tartar, and bacteria and will polish your teeth.
Deep Cleaning—Scaling and Root Planing: If you have gum disease, however, a deep cleaning may be necessary. This cleaning involves scaling and root planing, which are methods used to clean between the gums and teeth down into the roots. Sometimes a local anesthetic may be needed to numb your gums and the roots of your teeth.
Periodontal Maintenance: This is another cleaning that dentists use to stop the progression of periodontal (gum) disease. During this cleaning, your dentists will remove tartar and plaque build-up above and below the gum line, get rid of any stains on your teeth and help improve your breath.

Need a periodontal cleaning?

Download our guide to learn what to expect and what to ask the dentist.

Teeth Cleanings Cost with a Dental Savings Plan?

How Much Do Teeth Cleanings Cost with a Dental Savings Plan?

While prices for teeth cleanings aren't too unreasonable, if you can save money, you'd probably like to, especially if you have to pay for cleanings for you and the whole family. There are insurance alternatives that can help cut that cost for you, like dental savings plans.

With a dental savings plan, dental cleaning costs drop significantly, for example:

Adult cleanings: Without insurance approximately $127*; with a dental savings plan, as low as $68
Children's cleanings: Without insurance approximately $93*; with a dental savings plan as low as $51
Deep cleanings: Without insurance approximately $274*; with a dental savings plan as low as $160

*The select regional average cost represents the average fees for the procedures listed above in Los Angeles, Orlando, Chicago and New York City, as displayed in the cost of care tool as of June 2020.

1Dental offers several plan options. Compare our plan options below:

Care 500 Series Dental Plan: This plan is designed for individuals who make frequent visits to their general dentists because it offers a savings of 20 to 60% on these types of treatments. You can also save 20% on visits to specialists. The Care 500 Series Plan starts at $99/year for one member.
Dental Access Plan (powered by the Aetna Dental Access network): This plan is best for individuals who see specialists frequently because it provides greater savings on these procedures, specifically anywhere from 15 to 50% off treatment costs. You can also save 15 to 50% at general dentists with this plan, which is still substantial. The Dental Access Plan is accepted at over 226,000 practice locations. The Dental Access Plan starts at $99/year for one member.
Preferred Plan: The Preferred Plans combines the best of both of the plans above, which may be the most advantageous option if you see both your general dentists and specialists frequently. The Preferred Plan is available for $129/year (for one member), just $30 for the whole year.

Note: For exact treatment prices in your area, please visit the Careington Care 500 plan price list and enter your zip code. Or visit the Dental Access Plan price estimates page for national prices.

FAQs

How Often Should I Get a Teeth Cleaning?

The standard best practice is that most people should undergo a teeth cleaning every six months. However, for those with conditions that need to be more closely monitored, more frequent cleanings may be recommended—for instance, every three months. For others, cleanings may be needed less frequently. To find out how often you should be getting your teeth cleaned, speak with your dentist.

How Long Do Dental Cleanings Take?

Regular dental cleanings can typically take about 30 minutes to an hour, not including wait time.

Are Teeth Cleanings Painful?

Typically, no, they are not painful. You may experience a little discomfort with someone working in your mouth, but in most cases, cleanings are fairly easy. If you need a deep cleaning, you might need a local anesthetic to help with discomfort.

Conclusion

Teeth cleanings are an essential part of your routine oral health care. However, one of the most common complaints about dental care is that it isn't reasonably affordable, which means people forgo important procedures.

Don't neglect cleanings because you're unable to afford them. Whether you have insurance or not, signing up for a dental savings plan can help you reduce your out-of-pocket costs and ensure you're able to upkeep your oral health maintenance. While you may have to spend some money to maintain your teeth cleaning schedule, it can save you a lot of money on treatments in the long run.

Find a dentist near you to schedule your dental cleaning.

Summary: Why is the Care 500 our best seller for cleanings?

See exact procedure prices online (not estimates)
Large provider list of dentists
Great savings at general dentists (and specialists)
Millions of members, in business since 1979
Plan priced at an everyday low price, starting at $99 a year

or learn more about the plan in your area

See the Best Dental
Plan for Cleanings

See exact procedure prices
online (not estimates)

All our representatives are U.S. based

What members are saying:

"Love the savings! Dentist office quoted me a routine cleaning with X-rays for $242, paid $79 with Careington!"

- Connie N, OK

"...Last week I saved another $200 at my regular cleaning..."

- Charles M, TX

"...The cost is extremely low, and I can get my teeth cleaned and maintained as often as I want without worrying about the restrictions imposed by my normal plan."

- Gary M, TX

Better Business Bureau

We are proud to have earned an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau — an organization that promotes accountability and honesty between businesses and their customers.

1Dental's #1 core value is "Respect others as inherently valuable." Our goal is to treat customers with respect and integrity in everything we do.

How We Earned an A+ Rating

In order to maintain an A+ rating, a business must meet the following qualifications:

Receive minimal complaints
Respond to complaints in an appropriate, timely manner
Maintain ethical, transparent business practices

Accreditation

AB seal

Accredited Since: 3/25/2008

Years in Business: 23

CHECK US OUT ON BBB

"My routine dental work is cut by at least 50% every time."

Christina, New Jersey

"I was so relieved.... My cost dropped immediately from over $1,500 to about $800."

Deanne, Michigan

"Saved over $700 on a deep cleaning"

Anita C., Texas

"Better than insurance"

Patrick P., Ohio

What BBB reviewers
are saying

1Dental Refund Policy

Don't love the plan in your first 30 days? Get your money back

Our goal is to provide dental plans that meet your long-term needs, including everything from dental emergencies to routine care. Most of the time, we get it right, but in the event that we don't, you can cancel within 30 days and receive a full plan refund, minus the setup fee.

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For annual and multi-year plans:
You'll receive a full plan refund, minus the ^$20 setup fee.

For monthly plans:
You'll receive your first monthly payment back, minus the ^$30 setup fee.

Why do you have a setup fee?
We don't like these either, but it allows us to provide an affordable 30-day trial window for those who simply aren't sure if the plan will work for them. If the plan is a good fit, we want to reward members for loyalty — which is why we don't charge extra renewal fees (like our competitors). The setup fee helps us cover administration costs and continue to offer these plans at a low price.

Setup Fee Exceptions by State:
In the event that you need a refund, these 3 states have different laws:

Arkansas: You will be refunded the cost of your plan plus the entire setup fee.
Maryland: You will be refunded the cost of your plan, and you will be refunded all but $5 of your setup fee.
Tennessee: You will be refunded the cost of your plan plus the entire setup fee.

Refunds After the First 30 Days
We know that, sometimes, unusual circumstances happen that require you to cancel your plan after the first 30 days. Often, we are able to switch members to another plan that works better for them for free. In other cases, members finish out their year and simply don't renew. However, there are a few exceptions.

If you live in Florida, North Dakota, or Oklahoma, you will receive a prorated refund for the remainder of your plan.
If a plan member passes away
If your membership is terminated by 1Dental.com or Careington

Other circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please call our Customer Care team at 855-329-6305 if you would like to cancel after the first 30 days.

We are here to help you get the most out of your 1Dental plan

We are easy to reach

Call us at 800-372-7615 or email customercare@1dental.com

Our US-based Customer Care team is available Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 5 PM Central Time

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Member verification hot line available to participating providers 24/7 – Have your dentist call 800-372-7615 to confirm membership

We are happy to call a provider to verify membership or help you set an appointment upon request

Each representative is dedicated to Emergency Appointment assistance

Company Awards

We at 1Dental are very fortunate to have won many awards over the years.

Our gratitude goes to our faithful customers, talented and team-oriented employees, and partners who have made all of this possible since 1998!

National Awards

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2-time winner – Inc. Magazine; listed as one of Inc 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies

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2-time winner Entrepreneur Magazine – National Top Company CultureiQ (#10 and #14 medium size companies)

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Fortune Magazine - Nationally Ranked #7 Best Small Workplace

State Awards

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Fortune Magazine – Best Workplaces in Texas (#15 Small and Medium Companies)

Regional Awards

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4-time winner –Dallas Morning News – Top 100 Places to Work (#9, #10, #10, #16 Small company category)

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4-time winner FW Inc. – Best Company to work for (#2, #5, #7, #13 Medium to Large Companies)

Special Awards

Ethics

Best Overall Ethics – Dallas Morning News
Best at Encouraging New Ideas – Dallas Morning News
Entrepreneur of Excellence, Fort Worth Inc. Magazine: Randall Meinen, CEO 1Dental

Our plans are not dental insurance

They are what dental insurance should be.

Because 1Dental plans are not insurance - they can do things that traditional dental insurance cannot.

There is no claims process.
No waiting periods for important procedures.
No exclusions of preexisting conditions.
You can include non-traditional dependents in your membership like your parents, adult children, and grandchildren.
And there is no annual benefit maximum.

You can use a 1Dental plan to save on ALL the care you need.

Our plans are not dental insurance

They are what dental insurance should be.

Because 1Dental plans are not insurance - they can do things that traditional dental insurance cannot.

There is no claims process.
No waiting periods for important procedures.
No exclusions of preexisting conditions.
You can include non-traditional dependents in your membership like your parents, adult children, and grandchildren.
And there is no annual benefit maximum.

You can use a 1Dental plan to save on ALL the care you need.

Enter your zip code above to see the procedure list.

Please Wait Generating Price List...

Procedures & Prices

Each dentist has a different price list, but we took averages from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Orlando to give you an idea of what you'll save.

ADA	Aetna Navigator Description	Usual Fee	Discounted Fee	Member Savings

Procedures & Prices

Each dentist has a different price list, but we took averages from Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and Orlando to give you an idea of what you'll save.

Aetna Navigator Description
ADA	Usual Fee	Discounted Fee	Member Savings

In addition to the above procedures, your plan will also save on dental work like implants, veneers, bone grafts, ceramic crowns, adult braces and more!

JOIN DENTAL ACCESS

The select regional average cost represents the average fees for the procedures listed above in Los Angeles, Orlando, Chicago and New York City, as displayed in the cost of care tool as of June 2020.

Actual costs and savings may vary by provider, service and geographic location. We use the average of negotiated fees from participating providers to determine the average costs, as shown on the chart.

The select regional average cost represents the average fees for the procedures listed above in Los Angeles, Orlando, Chicago and New York City, as displayed in the cost of care tool as of June 2020.

1Dental Reviews from

(Based on 1,789 Ratings)

We've recommended 1Dental to friends and family members who are looking for excellent dental care at a very reasonable cost.Terry T, IN

It's well worth the price; the plan pays for itself in two or three routine dental visits.Paul B. , MN

Simple to use. No insurance company to deal with for claims. Our dentist uses this plan, gives us the discount and then we are on our way!Edwardo, AZ

The discounted rates are great especially since I have gum issues and this plan does not limit me to only 2 cleanings a year!! My bill always shows the regular costs and I'm always glad to see my charges are much less!Diana W, IL

1Dental Reviews from

(Based on 1,789 Ratings)

I have been with 1dental.com for several years now and I am very happy with the results of how much they have been helping me. I have had alot off dental problems my whole life and appreciate anything thing that they do to keep my prices down. I have spent in my life enough money to buy a house. Thank you so much for your help and I tell people about you all of the time. God bless your services and the eaze (how ever this is spelled!) of your services. You guys are the best.

- Kaye S.

I am a Preferred Plan member which includes access to providers in both Care 500 and Dental Access networks. After doing the math, we dropped our employer-sponsored dental insurance and got this plan instead. The Care 500 plan has been great to use for our six-month cleanings and checkups at Ideal Dental. My last one was only $44! My youngest daughter recently needed to get her wisdom teeth out - and it was VERY handy to be able to leverage the Dental Access network for that - which got the cost another $400 lower than the already discounted Care 500 rate. Its awesome being able to compare doing work with either option and then go with the lower cost. Everything is so much less expensive than it was with traditional dental insurance (especially with those high premiums). I'll never go back.

- Nick - TX

I needed to have a tooth pulled and a bridge made and if it hadn't been for this program, I would not have enjoyed the savings of $1,900.00 for that procedure.

- Jeanne M - IA

Wow, I was pleasantly very happy. I am getting a flapper for my front tooth and this discount Ins. saved me $550.00. I would highly recommend this company to anyone. I wish I had known about this a long time ago. I have been putting off going to the dentist cause I could not afford it. Thank you 1Dental.

- Kimberly S - NC

I saved over $4000.00 for all my procedures.This was better than any insurance I found.Thank you so much.

- Paul A - NC

I bought the Careington 500 Plan in May this year. With frequent cleanings of 2-3 times a year to keep my perio issues under control, I knew the plan discounts would help me out. Had no problems since my dentist is in the plan and financially the plan helps quite a bit!

- Brenda H. - TH

I had to have major dental work. Twenty extractions and full denture with a partial on the bottom. My dental plan saved me 50 percent off my total bill. Best investment I've ever made. No waiting period at all. Would recommend to anyone who likes to save THOUSANDS at the dentist!

- Christina - KY

1Dental changed my life. They make it easy and affordable to take care of your teeth.

- Dianne - Y

We had to get some major work done for our family. We saved over $2,000 and it was easy to sign up and use. I have recommended this to everyone I know.

- Steve - TN

Very much worth it because it has already saved me lots of money on my dental expenses! Plus it has Vision and Pharmacy savings. I'm very glad I chose to enroll in this plan.

- Cathy S. - GA

Having this discount plan literally took my quote down at LEAST 50%. So very worth the one time price!

- Sarah N. - FL

When I presented my membership card, the dental office told me that this is a much better plan than most insurances.

- Kim K - OH

1Dental has saved me over $2,000.00 in root canal work and crown replacements.

- H - PA

I was quoted $600 for a tooth extraction. After joining 1dental I had the tooth extracted the next day for $183.00, which included a couple of x-rays. It's better than any other "plan" I've had.

- P.A. - NY

A root canal that cost $1250 was reduced to $850 with my 1Dental plan. The cost of the plan for the year was covered with this first savings of $400. Can't beat that!!!

- Lilly - KY

After all discounts were taken I saved over 1500 dollars. Your dental plan was better than my dental insurance. I have been raving about it to friends and family.

- Arthur C - CA

Saved over 5k on my dental work

- Joe - FL

Saved approximately 50% on dentist quoted price for required dental work.

- Frankie K - VA

This discount plan has already saved me so much money for my children's braces. I'm so glad I found you and have recommended you to anybody who will listen! Thank you!

- Britta - NC

saved me over $6500! We are thrilled to have found 1Dental!

- Cheryl K - UT

This plan has saved me several thousand dollars

- Norm -FL

1Dental Reviews from

(Based on 1,789 Ratings)

I've had a dental plan from 1Dental for many years now. Over the years the plan has saved me thousands of dollars in dental expenses. I don't mind going to the dentist for regular check ups now since the price is about half with my discount plan. Going to the dentist on a regular basis has also helped prevent bigger dental issues down the road for me and my family.

- Tyler TX.

Love the savings! Dentist office quoted me a routine cleaning with X-rays for $242, paid $79 with Careington! Customer service is excellent, as well.

- Connie N. - ok

It's well worth the price; the plan pays for itself in two or three routine dental visits.

- Paul B. - MN

Simple to use. No insurance company to deal with for claims. Our dentist uses this plan, gives us the discount and then we are on our way!

- Edwardo - AZ

- Diana W - IL

Quick, easy and ready for immediate use. I saved a lot of money!

- Ccollins - MO

I bought the dental plan for my daughter. It's been third year since she used it and is being very happy. She can keep her regular appointments with dentists without spending a fortune. Very affordable and convenient also for eye care. Thank you 1dental.

- Iwona - IL

I needed full dentures with extractions. Total estimate was $7.237.00 and Careington Care 500 knocked off $4,283 for a total of $2.954.00 out of pocket. Thank you for the savings

- Mark - IL

I'm 67 and retired with no dental insurance. 1Dental just saved me $795 towards a root canal and a crown.

- KD. - PA

I have referred 1Dental to all my friends who don't have a dental program/coverage. Its the best! I love it and have saved so much money. Customer service is so friendly and helpful.

- Gen L - CA

The amount I saved each time my husband and I used it were tremendous. The program is exactly as advertised, and I loved knowing how much the procedures would cost before they were implemented. I will definitely renew my membership when it expires.

- Karin G - OH

Very good prices with excellent dentists. Many, many local choices. We've been extremely satisfied for probably 5 years now!

- DD - TX

Your first cleaning will pay for itself. Great product! Wished we had found out about it sooner!

- Curtis - NY

I've saved so much on cleanings and services - definitely worth the low yearly cost! Highly recommend this company.

- Briana - MD

I've been with Careington Care 500 since at least 2012 and have received excellent dental care..

- Diane P - IL

I needed to get some serious work done on my teeth. Deep clean, root canal and like 8 cavities. Overall cost was like $6000. 1Dental saved me over $3000 in cost. I am super happy with my discounts.

- Elizabeth - GA

I have a lot of work to be done on my teeth and the Careington 500 plan saved me a lot of money.

- Eric - PA

The Careington plan saved me over $9,000 dollars and I can smile again.

- Stephen M - GA

Instead of over $200, my bill for teeth cleaning and exam every 6 months is only about $60.

- June - CO

Much cheaper than any insurance plan I could find and in most cases provide better coverage. We are customers for life. Wholeheartedly, and without any hesitation, I strongly recommend the Careington 500 dental plan!

- Gary F - WA

I will recommand Careington Care 500 to all my friends.

- Lucienne I - FL

See A Dentist Today

If you need assistance with your dental emergency, before you use your plan, please call us at 412-335-4869 Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Central Time.

The earlier in the day that you call, the better we'll be able to help you get seen right away.

Note: The dentist's office must be open and accepting patients to use your plan.

Your dentist will contact our office number included on your ID to confirm your membership.

We don't like these fees either (which is why we only charge them at setup & not at renewal), but they help us cover administrative expenses so we can continue to make a monthly payment option available for those who need it.

We don't like these fees either (which is why we only charge them at setup & not at renewal), but they help us cover administrative expenses so we can keep plan prices as low as possible.