How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost?
Dental teeth cleaning is extremely economical in comparison to the ramifications of not having your teeth cleaned. Teeth cleaning is necessary and quite important. The procedure itself and the range of costs depend on the conditions, time, and work in conjunction with your dental examination. The costs will be reduced by having your teeth cleaned on a regular basis.
Why is the Teeth Cleaning Process so Important?
Each of us, as a human, has millions of bacteria in our mouths every single day. No exceptions. Some bacteria are naturally necessary to initiate the process of digestion and extract the nutrients from our food. If these excessive bacteria are allowed to accumulate and build up, they form a clear sticky substance that remains on the teeth called plaque. The acids found in the plaque immediately attack the enamel of the tooth, creating a cavity. If the plaque moves down the tooth and engages soft gum tissue, it will also immediately result in an infection, resulting in gum disease. Prevention of damaging plaque buildup is why it is so important to keep your teeth clean. It is a natural but vicious cycle that will not go away.
The Teeth Cleaning Process
The health industry animatedly recommends that we brush our teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Take your time, be patient, and do a thorough job. They also actively suggest complementing your brushing by flossing your teeth at least once a day. These simple daily oral hygiene habits will go a long way in establishing and maintaining preventative efforts and making your professional teeth cleaning faster and more economical.
The health industry also strongly recommends that you have two dental exams a year. By doing this, you remain proactive in the care of your teeth and gums, and your dentist will build a history of your oral hygiene and monitor changes. The first thing that is often done during the exam is taking X-rays. This allows your dentist to identify conditions below the gum line. Next, the soft tissues of your cheeks, gums, tongue, and palate are examined for signs of oral cancer. A small hand-held dental tool is used to probe for any cavities. After this exam is completed, your teeth cleaning begins. Your dental team will use either a hand-held device called a scaler or an ultrasonic piece to diligently remove the plaque buildup on your teeth. The results are noticeably pleasing. Your teeth look whiter and feel smoother. Your gums will also be checked for any sign of infection, and finally, the teeth will be polished.
The Cost of Teeth Cleaning
Depending on the intensity of these different steps, teeth cleaning may range from $75 to $200. The geographic location of your dental office will also have an impact on costs. This means the Midwest versus either coast, as well as the local rates. X-rays are also an additional cost. A reasonable national average for a thorough dental exam is right around $200. If the plaque has indeed encountered the gums, then deeper scaling will be necessary, and this step will increase the costs.