Routine Teeth Cleaning is advised every six months even if a person has good dental hygiene. A more frequent cleaning, at three to four months, can be advised in people suffering from gum disease. Scaling is designed to remove all the tartar (calcified plaque) accumulated on the teeth and between the teeth and gum. This procedure can only be done mechanically with the dentist using ultrasonic instruments or devices. Polishing is used to soften and clean up any dental plaque accumulated on tooth surfaces and restorations (fillings, crowns, etc.). Polishing also removes stains from the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it will turn into tartar. If the tartar is not removed, it can cause gum disease and halitosis (bad breath). A Teeth Cleaning procedure is, therefore, a necessary complement to dental hygiene at home (routine brushing and flossing).
Cost of dental cleaning
The price of a cleaning may vary depending on what part of the country a person lives in and the dentist chosen. Generally speaking, the cost varies between $150 and $300, including a dental exam and X-rays (as needed). A growing number of studies point to an important link between dental health and overall health. Poor oral health is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung disease and respiratory illness. Regular dental cleaning is essential for the removal of plaque and tartar on the teeth. It also allows the dentist to detect and prevent several diseases early on.
Prevention of gum disease
A dental cleaning includes the removal of plaque and teeth scale. The dentist will also polish the patient’s teeth for a smooth and clean finish. Eliminating plaque is essential to oral health because plaque build-up is the first step towards gum disease, such as periodontal disease and gingivitis. These diseases can cause pain, inflammation, bad breath, and tooth loss.
Early detection of diseases
When your teeth are cleaned, the dentist or dental hygienist will study each tooth and the gums. They will look for problems such as cavities, loose teeth, swollen gums, and discoloration. All these symptoms may go unnoticed if a person does not visit the dentist on a regular basis. Oral cancer is another disease that can be fatal if left untreated. Contact Robert S. Ogden DDS PA for more details.
