How Much Does Dental Cleaning Cost?

Relatively speaking, dental cleaning is pretty darn economical in comparison to the ramifications of not having your teeth cleaned. Let’s first explain why dental cleaning is both necessary and advantageous, the process itself, the ranges of costs depending on the amount of work in conjunction with the dental examination and the benefits of having your teeth cleaned on a regular basis.

Why go through the Dental Cleaning Process

We all as humans have millions of bacteria in our mouths every day and every hour. Some bacteria are necessary to initiate the process of withdrawing the nutrients from the food we eat. If these bacteria are allowed to build up it creates a clear sticky substance that will accumulate on the teeth called plaque. The acids in the plaque will immediately attack the hard enamel of the tooth resulting in a damaging cavity. If the plaque drifts down the tooth and comes in contact with the soft tissue of the gums it will also immediately result in an infection causing gum disease. And that is why it is so important to keep your teeth clean. It is a vicious cycle that will not change or go away.

The Dental Cleaning Process

The health industry strongly suggests that we all brush our teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. Take your time and do a thorough job. It is also suggested to compliment that effort with flossing between your teeth at least once a day. These at-home oral hygiene habits will go a long way in making your professional dental cleaning quicker and more economical.

Finally, the health industry also suggests that you have two dental examinations a year. By doing this you remain proactive in the care of your teeth and gums and the dental office is able to build a history of your oral hygiene and track any changes. The first thing that may be introduced at the exam is capturing some x-rays. This allows the dentist to see what is going on below the gum line. Then the soft tissue of the cheeks, gums, tongue and palate are inspected for any signs of oral cancer. A small hand-held device will be used to probe for cavities. After this has been completed the dental cleaning will begin. Either another hand-held device called a scaler, or an ultrasonic piece will be used to remove the plaque on your teeth. The results are amazing. Your teeth will look brighter and feel smoother. The gums will be checked for any sign of infection and then the teeth most likely will be polished.

The Cost of Dental Cleaning

Depending on the steps mentioned above a dental cleaning can range from only $75 to $200. The geographic location of the office can impact these costs; Midwest versus either coast as well as local rates. X-rays will be an additional cost. A comfortable national average for a solid dental examination runs right around $200. If the plaque has come in contact with the gums deeper scaling will be necessary and this will dramatically increase the costs.

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