For good overall health, taking care of your teeth is essential. By practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly for dental cleanings and checkups, you can maintain your oral health and avoid significant problems later.
Dental cleanings are necessary for healthy teeth and gums, and regular trips to the dentist are the only way to ensure that any problems with your teeth are caught early and treated immediately before they become more serious.
Not only do regular dental cleanings keep your smile bright and healthy, but they also lower your risk of diabetes, certain cancers, and heart disease.
What is the procedure for teeth cleaning?
Teeth cleaning is a standard dental procedure that removes tartar and plaque from your teeth to help prevent cavities and other dental problems.
Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that grows on your teeth over time. As plaque accumulates, it can harden and become tartar or calculus. Both tartar and plaque contain bacteria that can cause tooth decay or gum disease if not removed regularly.
During a dental cleaning, your dental hygienist scales and polishes your teeth to remove plaque and tartar. Specialized tools are used: A scaler loosens tartar buildup, and a curette removes it. An ultrasonic device may be used to polish your teeth.
How often are teeth cleanings needed?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people in good overall health should see their dentist every six months for a cleaning and check-up. If you have a long-term illness like diabetes or a heart problem, you may need to visit the dentist more often.
Many experts say that a child should go to the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth coming in, whichever comes first. The ADA recommends that children go to the dentist at least once every six months after their first visit.
How much does a dental cleaning cost?
Regular dental cleanings are a necessary part of maintaining your oral health. Although the procedure is straightforward, the price will depend on a few different factors.
If you live in or near a large city, you’ll likely pay more for a dental cleaning than in a small town.
Additionally, the dentist's experience will affect how much you pay for their services. If your dentist has significant experience and a high-tech office, they’ll almost certainly charge more than a dentist with less experience.
In Scarsdale, NY, a dental cleaning typically costs between $100 and $400.
Will my insurance cover dental cleanings?
Most dental insurance plans cover the total cost of twice-yearly checkups and cleanings, so patients with insurance typically won't pay anything out of pocket.
Maintain Your Smile at Scarsdale Dental Group
Patients who practice good dental hygiene and have regular cleanings and check-ups have a lower risk of developing tooth decay and other oral health issues. The expert team at Scarsdale Dental Group is here to help you maintain a healthy smile for life. To make an appointment, contact us or call 914-723-4707 today.