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What happens during a dental (teeth) cleaning?
A dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a routine dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist or a dentist. The procedure typically involves the following steps: Assessment: Before the cleaning, the dental professional will examine your teeth and gums to identify any areas of concern, such as signs of gum disease or tooth decay. Removal of plaque and tartar: Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and can cause tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly. Tartar, or calculus, is hardened plaque that cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. The dental professional will use special tools, such as a scaler, to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and around your gum line. Cleaning and polishing: After the plaque and tartar have been removed, the dental professional will use a gritty toothpaste and a polishing tool to clean and polish your teeth. This helps remove surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean. Flossing: The dental professional will floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque or food particles from between your teeth. Fluoride treatment: Finally, the dental professional may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth to help strengthen the enamel and protect against tooth decay. The entire cleaning process typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of cleaning required. It is recommended that you get a dental cleaning every six months to maintain good oral health.
During a typical dental hygiene visit, you can expect the following:
Medical history update: Your dental hygienist or dentist will ask you about any changes in your medical history since your last visit. It is important to provide accurate and up-to-date information to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your treatment.
Examination: Your hygienist or dentist will examine your teeth and gums to check for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. They may use tools such as a dental mirror and probe to examine your teeth and gums.
Cleaning: Your hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, including those hard-to-reach areas between teeth and below the gum line. They may also use a polishing tool to remove surface stains and make your teeth feel smooth.
Flossing: Your hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque or debris between your teeth. Fluoride treatment: A fluoride treatment may be applied to your teeth to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen the enamel.
Oral hygiene education: Your hygienist will provide you with education and tips on how to properly care for your teeth and gums at home, including brushing techniques, flossing, and dietary recommendations.
X-rays: Depending on your individual needs and dental history, your dentist may recommend taking dental x-rays to check for any problems that are not visible during the clinical examination. Overall, a dental hygiene visit is a comprehensive and essential part of maintaining good oral health. It is important to attend regular hygiene appointments as recommended by your dentist or hygienist to ensure the health of your teeth and gums.
Most PPO dental insurance plans cover preventive dental care services such as teeth cleaning. However, it's important to check with your specific insurance plan to determine what services are covered and what your out-of-pocket expenses will be. Some insurance plans may cover the full cost of preventive care services, while others may require a copay or deductible. It's also important to check if there are any limitations or exclusions to your coverage, such as a maximum number of covered visits per year or restrictions on the types of cleaning procedures that are covered. It's a good idea to contact your insurance provider or your dentist's office before your appointment to confirm your coverage and any expected out-of-pocket costs. This will help you plan for any potential expenses and avoid unexpected bills.
What are the different types of dental cleanings?
There are different types of dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, that your dental hygienist or dentist may recommend depending on your individual needs. The most common types of dental cleanings include:
Regular cleaning: This is the most common type of cleaning that is recommended for patients who have good oral health and no signs of gum disease. It involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and along the gum line, polishing the teeth, and flossing.
Deep cleaning: Also known as scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning is recommended for patients who have gum disease or a high risk of developing it. This type of cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line, smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth, and possibly applying antibiotic medication to the gums to help control the infection.
Periodontal maintenance cleaning: This type of cleaning is recommended for patients who have been treated for gum disease and need ongoing care to maintain their oral health. It involves regular cleanings every three to four months to prevent the return of gum disease.
Prophylaxis with fluoride: This type of cleaning includes a fluoride treatment, which helps strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay. It is recommended for patients who are at high risk of developing cavities.
Cosmetic cleaning: This type of cleaning is focused on improving the appearance of the teeth by removing surface stains and discoloration. It is usually performed in conjunction with other cosmetic dental treatments. It's important to discuss your individual needs with your dental hygienist or dentist to determine which type of cleaning is right for you. They can evaluate your oral health and recommend the appropriate type of cleaning to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
It is generally recommended to have a dental cleaning, or prophylaxis, every six months to maintain good oral health. However, the frequency of cleanings may vary depending on your individual needs and risk factors for dental problems.
Some people may need more frequent cleanings, such as every three to four months, if they have a history of gum disease, frequent plaque buildup, or certain medical conditions that affect their oral health. On the other hand, people with excellent oral health and low risk of dental problems may be able to go longer than six months between cleanings.
Your dentist or dental hygienist can evaluate your oral health and recommend the appropriate frequency of dental cleanings for you. It's important to follow their recommendations and attend regular cleanings to help prevent dental problems and maintain a healthy smile.
The cost of a teeth cleaning in New York City without insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the dental office, and the type of cleaning you need. However, on average, a standard teeth cleaning without insurance can cost between $75 and $250 in NYC. Keep in mind that if you require additional services such as deep cleaning, periodontal treatment, or other dental procedures, the cost can be higher. It's always a good idea to ask for an estimate from the dental office before proceeding with any treatment. If you don't have dental insurance, there are several options to help make dental care more affordable. Some dental offices may offer financing options or payment plans, and there are also discount dental plans available that can provide savings on dental services. You can also check with local dental schools or clinics, which may offer reduced-cost services provided by dental students under the supervision of licensed dentists.
