Maintain Optimal Oral Health with Regular Dental Cleanings
Maintaining your oral health is a necessary aspect of leading a healthy and happy life. Dental cleanings are routine procedures that keep your teeth and gums healthy, free from plaque and tartar buildup, and prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Our Kingwood, TX dentist, Dr. Derek Scott offers regular dental cleanings to help you maintain optimal oral health and ensure that any underlying dental issues are detected and treated early on.
To schedule your next dental cleaning, contact our Kingwood dental office by calling (281) 358-3125.
What Are Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are routine procedures performed by dentists and dental hygienists to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Professional teeth cleanings, carried out by experienced dental hygienists who utilize the latest technologies and procedures, are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health, preventing gum disease, and tooth decay. By visiting your dentist twice a year for these cleanings, you can keep your smile sparkling and your oral health in pristine condition.
Types of Dental Cleanings
There are several types of dental cleanings, including regular teeth cleanings, which are a crucial part of preventive dentistry.
Regular Dental Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are the most common type and are recommended for those with good oral health. During a regular dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth. This type of cleaning is typically done twice a year as part of routine dental care.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is recommended for those with moderate to severe gum disease. During scaling and root planing, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. They’ll also smooth out the roots of your teeth to prevent future buildup. Depending on your condition, it can take one or two sessions to complete.
Periodontal Maintenance
A periodontal maintenance cleaning is done after scaling and root planing to maintain the health of the gums. During periodontal maintenance, your dentist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup that has accumulated since your last deep cleaning. This type of cleaning is typically done every three to four months.
Gross Debridement
Gross debridement cleaning isn’t your typical dental cleaning. It’s done to remove plaque and tartar buildup that’s too excessive for regular cleaning. This procedure is necessary when there’s so much buildup that it makes it difficult for the dentist to perform a thorough oral examination. The gums may be swollen, and the buildup must be removed before a prophylaxis or dental exam can be completed.
Who Needs Dental Cleanings?
Everyone should receive a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year, even if they have good oral hygiene habits. Even if you brush and floss your teeth well, some areas are hard to clean properly at home. Those areas will often accumulate plaque and tartar and it should be removed as soon as possible.
Those with underlying dental issues or a history of gum disease may require more frequent teeth cleanings. Our Kingwood dentist will inform you how often you should come in for routine dental cleanings.
Dental Cleaning Costs
On average, a dental cleaning will cost around $125. However, the costs of your dental cleaning will fluctuate depending on certain factors, including:
- Your location: The cost of dental care is generally higher in urban areas than in rural areas.
- The type of dental cleaning: A routine cleaning is less expensive than a deep cleaning, which is necessary for people with gum disease.
- The experience and training of the dentist: More experienced dentists typically charge more than less experienced dentists.
- Your dental insurance: If you have dental insurance, your insurance may cover a portion of the cost of a dental cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is recommended that everyone gets a dental cleaning at least twice a year, regardless of their oral hygiene habits. Even if you brush and floss your teeth regularly, some areas are difficult to clean properly at home.
If you have underlying dental issues or a history of gum disease, you may require more frequent cleanings. Your dentist will advise you on how often you should go for dental cleanings. Additionally, a fluoride treatment may be recommended after a dental cleaning to further improve oral health.
No, dental cleanings are typically painless. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will provide you with post-operative instructions after the cleaning.
A dental cleaning typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The length of your procedure depends on the type of cleaning and the extent of buildup on your teeth.
Yes, you can eat after a dental cleaning, but your general dentist will recommend avoiding eating or drinking anything too hot or cold for a few hours after the procedure.
Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning Today!
It’s important to visit your Kingwood dentist regularly for teeth cleanings, as they play a crucial role in maintaining good oral health and preventing future dental problems. During your exam, Dr. Scott will recommend the best type of cleaning for you, emphasizing the importance of regular preventive dentistry through teeth cleanings. These procedures are essential for keeping your mouth healthy and avoiding dental issues down the line.
If you’re looking to achieve pristine oral health, schedule an appointment at our Kingwood, TX dental office by calling (281) 358-3125. Dr. Scott is proud to serve Texas patients in Humble, Atascocita, Porter, Kingwood, and the surrounding areas.