Teeth Cleaning
What Is Teeth Cleaning?
Maintaining good oral health is essential for a bright and confident smile. One crucial aspect of dental care is regular dental cleaning. Teeth cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, is a preventive dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. It involves the thorough removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth using various dental tools and techniques. Additionally, the dental hygienist will have the time to address any underlying gum issues or concerns. Regular teeth cleaning plays a vital role in preventing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Regular teeth cleaning is typically recommended every six months, although the frequency may vary based on individual needs. It serves as a crucial preventive measure that can help maintain optimal oral health and detect early signs of dental issues. Before booking a dental cleaning, there are some things you should know:
- Who Needs Teeth Cleaning?
- What Are The Advantages Of Teeth Cleaning?
- How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost?
- What Are The Steps In The Teeth Cleaning Procedure?
- Can I Have Teeth Cleaning If I Am Pregnant?
If you have any further questions about Teeth Cleaning or other dental services offered at Atlas Dental, please contact us.
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Who Needs Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning is beneficial for everyone, regardless of age or oral health condition. Regular dental cleanings are recommended for individuals of all ages, from children to adults and seniors. Here are some categories of people who particularly benefit from teeth cleaning:
- Children: Children are prone to developing cavities and gum problems, especially if they consume sugary foods and beverages or have difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene. Regular dental cleaning for children helps prevent cavities, promote healthy gum tissue, and establish good oral care habits from an early age.
- Adults: Adults, too, require routine teeth cleaning to maintain optimal oral health. Even with thorough brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. Professional teeth cleaning removes these deposits, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. It also helps keep your smile bright and fresh.
- Seniors: As we age, maintaining good oral health becomes increasingly important. Seniors may experience age-related dental issues, such as receding gums, dry mouth, or tooth sensitivity. Regular teeth cleaning appointments help address these concerns, prevent gum disease, and maintain a healthy smile in the later stages of life.
- Individuals with Gum Disease: If you have gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, regular teeth cleaning is crucial. The deep cleaning procedure, known as scaling and root planing, targets the buildup of plaque and tartar below the gum line, where bacteria thrive and cause gum inflammation. Teeth cleaning plays a vital role in managing and preventing the progression of gum disease.
- Smokers and Tobacco Users: Smoking and tobacco use can have detrimental effects on oral health, contributing to gum disease, tooth discoloration, and bad breath. Teeth cleaning can help combat these issues by removing stains and addressing early signs of gum disease caused by tobacco use.
- People with Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disorders, can impact oral health. Regular dental cleaning appointments are crucial for individuals with these conditions, as they help prevent oral complications and maintain overall well-being.
In summary, teeth cleaning is essential for everyone. Regardless of age, oral health condition, or lifestyle habits, routine dental cleanings support optimal oral health, prevent dental problems, and contribute to a healthier smile. Consulting with a dental professional will help determine the appropriate frequency of teeth cleaning based on individual needs and oral health status. If you have further questions about Teeth Cleaning, please contact us.
What Are The Advantages Of Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning offers several advantages that contribute to optimal oral health and overall well-being. Here are some of the key benefits of regular teeth cleaning:
- Prevention of Tooth Decay: Plaque, a sticky film containing bacteria, forms on teeth surfaces and along the gumline. If not properly removed, plaque can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and even tooth loss. Professionaldental cleaning removes plaque buildup, reducing the risk of dental decay and preserving the integrity of your teeth.
- Prevention of Gum Disease: Plaque accumulation not only affects the teeth but can also lead to gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease is characterized by inflammation, bleeding gums, and potential loss of gum and bone tissue. Teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar, minimizing the risk of gum disease and helping to maintain healthy gums.
- Removal of Tartar and Stains: Over time, plaque that is not removed through regular brushing and flossing hardens and becomes tartar (also called calculus). Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional intervention. Teeth cleaning involves scaling, a process that effectively removes tartar and surface stains, leaving your teeth cleaner and brighter.
- Freshens Breath: Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by bacteria accumulation in the mouth, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Professional teeth cleaning helps eliminate the bacteria responsible for bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and odor-free.
- Detection of Oral Health Issues: During adental cleaning appointment, dental professionals thoroughly examine your mouth for any signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gum inflammation, oral lesions, or even oral cancer. Regular dental cleanings enable early detection of potential issues, allowing for prompt treatment and preventing complications.
- Improvement in Overall Health: Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Poor oral hygiene and untreated dental issues can contribute to systemic health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. By maintaining good oral health through regular teeth cleaning, you can reduce the risk of these systemic health conditions.
- Preservation of Dental Work: If you have dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or dental implants, regular teeth cleaning is essential to maintain their longevity. Dental plaque can accumulate around these restorations, leading to decay or gum problems. Professional cleaning helps ensure the health and durability of your dental work.
By undergoing regular dental cleaning, you can enjoy these advantages and maintain a healthy smile. It is important to consult with a dental professional to determine the recommended frequency of dental cleanings based on your individual needs and oral health status. If you have further questions about benefits of Teeth Cleaning, please contact us.
Cost of Teeth Cleaning
Teeth Cleaning (also known as scaling) is calculated by the amount of time spent by the dentist or dental hygienist cleaning your teeth using a combination of hand scalers and ultrasonic scalers. A typical dental cleaning is around 1 hour long, and will therefore cost $257. The codes relevant to dental scaling in the Ontario Dental Association’s Suggested Fee Guide appear as follows:
Scaling
- 11111 – One unit of time (15 minutes): $73
- 11112 – Two unit of time (30 minutes): $140
- 11113 – Three unit of time (45 minutes): $197
- 11114 – Four of time (60 minutes): $257
- 11115 – Five unit of time (75 minutes): $321
- 11116 – Six unit of time (90 minutes) $386
Additionally, you may be offered additional services such as Polishing to remove extrinsic stains and Fluoride treatment to protect your teeth against future cavities:
Polishing
- 11111 – One unit of time (15 minutes): $36
- 11107 – Half unit of time (7.5 minutes): $29
Fluoride
- 12111 – Rinse: $9
- 12112 – Gel or Foam: $36
- 12113 – Varnish: $38
Teeth cleanings are considered a basic service under all dental insurance plans and should be covered to your maximum insurable limit, but be sure to find out from your dental insurance plan provider how much you are eligible for before going ahead with dental treatment. Our fees are consistent with the ODA Fee Guide.
For patients without dental insurance, Atlas Dental is pleased to offer dental financing through Dentalcard. Affordable payment plans start at 7.95% for terms of 6 months to 6 years. To learn more about Dentalcard dental treatment financing, follow this link.
What Are The Steps In The Teeth Cleaning Procedure?
The teeth cleaning procedure typically involves several steps to ensure a thorough and effective cleaning. While specific techniques may vary depending on the dental practice, here are the general steps involved in a standard dental cleaning procedure:
- Examination and Assessment: In advanced of your teeth cleaning appointment, please review these pre-visit instructions. Before the cleaning process begins, a dental hygienist or dentist will perform a visual examination of your teeth and gums. They will check for any signs of dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral abnormalities. Dental x-rays may also be taken to get a more comprehensive view of your oral health.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using a small mouth mirror to guide them, the dental professional will use manual and ultrasonic hand scalers to carefully remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. This process is known as scaling. They will target both the front and back of your teeth, ensuring thorough cleaning. Afterwards, the dental professional may use an automated prophy brush with prophy paste to remove any remaining plaque or surface stains, leaving them smooth and shiny.
- Fluoride Treatment (Optional): Some dental practices offer a fluoride treatment after the cleaning process. Fluoride helps strengthen your tooth enamel and provides additional protection against cavities. The dental professional may apply a fluoride gel or varnish to your teeth and leave it on for a short period.
- Education and Recommendations: Following the cleaning, the dental professional may provide post-visit instructions tailored to your specific needs. They will offer guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, discuss the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene habits, and suggest any additional treatments or follow-up appointments if necessary.
It is important to note that the steps and order may vary slightly depending on the dental practice and the individual’s oral health condition. Dental professionals may also use other specialized tools and techniques based on specific requirements. Regular teeth cleaning appointments, typically recommended every six months, help maintain optimal oral health, prevent dental problems, and ensure a cleaner, healthier smile. If you have further questions about the Teeth Cleaning procedure, please contact us.
Can I Have Teeth Cleaning If I Am Pregnant?
Yes, it is generally safe to have teeth cleaning during pregnancy. In fact, maintaining good oral health is particularly important during pregnancy due to the hormonal changes that can increase the risk of certain dental issues. However, it is important to inform your dental professional that you are pregnant and provide them with relevant information about your pregnancy, including any medications or treatments you may be undergoing.
Here are a few considerations regarding teeth cleaning during pregnancy:
- Timing: It is safe to undergo dental cleaning at any stage of pregnancy. However, if you have a high-risk pregnancy or certain medical conditions, your dentist may recommend scheduling the cleaning during the second trimester when the risk of potential complications is lower.
- Informing the Dental Professional: Make sure to inform your dental professional about your pregnancy when scheduling the appointment and during the dental visit. Provide them with details about your pregnancy, any prenatal vitamins or medications you are taking, and any specific concerns you may have.
- Dental X-rays: Dental X-rays are generally avoided during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester when the baby’s organs are developing. However, if absolutely necessary, your dentist may take precautions such as using a lead apron and thyroid collar to minimize radiation exposure to the abdomen.
- Anesthesia and Medications: Local anesthesia, commonly used for dental procedures, is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, certain medications and antibiotics may be best avoided or used with caution. It is crucial to inform your dental professional about your pregnancy to ensure the use of safe medications and techniques.
- Posture and Comfort: The dental professional may make adjustments to ensure your comfort during the procedure. They may provide additional support or modify the chair position to accommodate your changing body.
- Gum Health: Pregnancy hormones can increase the risk of gum problems like gingivitis or pregnancy gingivitis. Teeth cleaning can help remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of gum disease and promoting better oral health.
By maintaining regular dental cleaning appointments during pregnancy, you can help safeguard your oral health and potentially minimize the risk of certain dental issues associated with pregnancy. However, always consult with your prenatal healthcare provider and dental professional for personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific circumstances. If you have further questions about Teeth Cleaning during pregnancy, please contact us.
