What is a dental deep cleaning?

If you’re looking for information on dental deep cleaning cost, you’ve come to the right place! Here, we’ll explore what deep cleaning your teeth actually entails and why it’s so important to have this procedure done every six months or so. We’ll then provide some examples of how much deep cleaning can cost if you want to know more about the price of dental cleaning cost before making an appointment. Finally, we’ll share some tips on how to save money on dental cleaning services, so you don’t spend as much on your treatment as possible!

Dental Deep Cleaning: Defined

A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar (hardened bits of bacteria) from your teeth. It’s different from regular brushing and flossing because it involves either manually or mechanically removing these deposits. In fact, many dentists refer to regular oral hygiene as day-to-day maintenance while they focus on procedures like scaling and root planing for long-term results. You may experience some discomfort following your dental cleanings, but you shouldn’t have any long-lasting effects—and you should be able to enjoy healthier teeth for many years after treatment.

Dental Deep Cleaning Procedure

Dental cleanings—also known as prophylaxis or oral prophylaxis—are regularly scheduled sessions in which your dentist uses special tools to clean below and around dental restorations like fillings and crowns. A dental prophylaxis can also be used to remove tartar that has already begun to accumulate on your teeth. Dental cleanings have been shown to prevent gum disease, cavities, bad breath, bone loss and other issues that come with an accumulation of plaque. A dental deep cleaning typically consists of two phases: scaling and root planing. In both instances, your dentist will use special instruments designed specifically for dental procedures that remove plaque from below and above existing dental work.

How Much Does Dental Deep Cleaning Cost?

A dental deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing (SRP), helps remove plaque and tartar from above and below your gum line. The process involves using special instruments to remove deposits of calculus (tartar) that build up on teeth. While some of it is easy to see, deeper deposits are closer to your gums. Many times, an electric dental scaler or ultrasonic instrument removes these hard-to-reach areas. Dental hygienists provide SRP services in dentist offices under their supervision; some dental hygienists also provide SRP services independently in private practice. Depending on whether you have public or private insurance coverage for dental cleanings, as well as what type of coverage you have, pricing can vary widely.

Do I Need Dental Deep Cleaning?

As we get older, plaque and tartar build up on our teeth. This can cause cavities, tooth decay, and gingivitis. If your gums are red or swollen or bleed when you brush, it’s a sign of periodontal disease. The best way to prevent all of these issues is to schedule regular dental cleanings and exams with your dentist in order to keep your teeth healthy. A dental cleaning should be done every six months in order to remove plaque and tartar build-up that may be causing pain or damage.

A deep cleaning involves removing even more buildup than at normal cleanings. It gets its name because dental instruments have to go deeper into pockets below the gum line where bacteria thrive. At first glance, dental deep cleaning cost may seem high for those without dental insurance. However, considering that deep cleanings do away with many potential problems down the road—not just short-term ones—it makes sense for people who can afford them to see their dentist regularly for such treatments. In fact, if performed correctly by a professional hygienist or dentist, oral hygiene habits will actually save money in dental bills over time!

General Precautions About Dental Cleanings

Do not eat or drink anything, except water, for at least six hours before your appointment. Brush and floss your teeth after every meal. Do not chew on sugarless gum or use sugarless mouthwash. If you take aspirin or other blood thinners, do not skip doses in order to keep blood thinning drugs out of your mouth prior to treatment. After dental treatment, avoid contact sports and activities that could result in injury for two days. When returning home from work or school after dental care, rinse with water three times before eating anything.