Why Regular Dental Cleanings Matter for Optimal Oral Health
Regular dental cleanings are crucial for maintaining not only a sparkling smile but also for ensuring optimal oral health. By scheduling routine dental cleanings, you can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. These professional cleanings, typically performed by a dental hygienist, remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing cannot fully eliminate. This preventive care helps in detecting early signs of oral health problems, allowing for timely intervention.
For patients in Eastlake, Mentor, Wickliffe or the surrounding areas, Willoughby Hills, OH dentist, Dr. Phillip Wallace offers thorough dental cleanings to keep your teeth and gums in top shape. If it’s time for your routine dental cleaning, contact Smile Brighter by calling (440) 210-0999.
What is a Routine Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning is a preventive appointment where your dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can’t fully eliminate. This cleaning helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, and it allows your dentist to check for any early signs of oral health issues. In addition to deep cleaning your teeth, your dentist can guide you on at-home care tips to ensure long-term oral health.
Types of Dental Cleanings
There are different types of dental cleanings to address various oral health needs:
- Routine Dental Cleaning: This is a standard cleaning procedure aimed at maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
- Deep Dental Cleaning: Also known as scaling and root planing, this procedure is necessary for those with gum disease, as it removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
Benefits of Professional Cleanings
- Prevention of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Regular cleanings help in removing plaque and tartar, thus preventing cavities and gingivitis.
- Early Detection of Oral Health Problems: During cleanings, dentists can identify early signs of oral health issues, such as oral cancer or periodontal disease.
- Improved Overall Health: Maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of heart disease and other health issues linked to oral health.
Maintaining optimal oral health requires a combination of regular dental cleanings and a diligent at-home oral hygiene routine. By following proper brushing and flossing techniques and scheduling routine dental visits, you can ensure a healthy, bright smile for years to come.
What to Expect During a Routine Cleaning at Smile Brighter
- Oral Exam: Dr. Wallace or a member of his team will begin by examining your mouth to check for signs of inflammation, decay, or other issues.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized tools, your dental hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and around the gum line. This process, known as scaling, is essential to preventing cavities and gum disease.
- Polishing and Flossing: After scaling, your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains. Finally, the hygienist will floss to ensure any remaining debris is removed, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and fresh.
- Fluoride Treatment (Optional): For added cavity protection, Dr. Wallace may recommend a fluoride treatment, which strengthens your enamel and helps fight off decay between visits.
How Often Should You Get a Teeth Cleaning?
The American Dental Association recommends that most individuals should have their teeth cleaned at least twice a year. However, those with increased risk factors such as gum disease, diabetes, or a history of cavities may benefit from more frequent visits. Your dentist will tailor a cleaning schedule that best suits your oral health needs.
Maintaining Oral Health Between Visits
Along with getting your teeth cleaned, maintaining a good at-home oral care routine is essential. This includes brushing twice daily, flossing once daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash to keep plaque at bay. If you have questions about the best products or techniques, your dentist or hygienist can provide recommendations during your cleaning appointment.
Cost of Dental Cleanings
The cost of dental cleanings can vary based on location, the type of cleaning required, and whether you have dental insurance. On average, a routine cleaning costs between $75 and $200, while deep cleanings can range from $200 to $500 or more per session. It’s advisable to check with your dental insurance provider to understand your coverage for these services.
Insurance and Dental Cleanings
Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of the cost of routine cleanings, often including two cleanings per year as part of preventive care. With insurance, you might only need to cover a small co-pay or nothing at all for basic cleanings. For more extensive cleaning procedures, insurance plans may cover a percentage of the cost, so be sure to check with your provider to understand what’s included.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is generally recommended to have a dental exam and cleaning every six months. Regular six-month visits allow the dentist to monitor your oral health closely, catch any potential issues early on, and perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Dental cleanings can help to improve the appearance of your teeth and may make them appear whiter. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth. These stains are often caused by substances like coffee, tea, tobacco, and certain foods.
Absolutely! Dental exams and cleanings are essential for children’s oral health. Regular visits to the dentist from an early age can help establish good oral hygiene habits and detect any dental issues early on. Children may be more prone to cavities, so professional cleanings can effectively remove plaque and protect their developing teeth.
In many cases, dental exams and cleanings are covered by dental insurance plans. Most dental insurance policies prioritize preventive care as a way to reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatments. However, coverage can vary depending on your insurance provider and plan. It’s essential to review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage for dental exams and cleanings.
Take Charge of Your Dental Health at Smile Brighter of Willoughby Hills!
Dental exams and cleanings are the foundation of excellent oral health and a dazzling smile. By being proactive with your dental care, you can prevent potential issues and maintain a beautiful, healthy mouth. Regular dental visits, combined with diligent oral hygiene at home, can lead to a lifetime of strong, confident smiles. Don’t wait; schedule your next dental exam and cleaning by contacting Smile Brighter at (440) 210 – 0999 to take the first step towards a healthier you.