Take Care of Your Teeth and Gums
Routine teeth cleaning and checkups are vital for maintaining not just your teeth but also your gums and the overall health of your mouth. Regular cleanings help to eliminate plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause tooth decay, gum disease, and persistent bad breath. Professional cleaning reaches areas that are difficult to clean with regular brushing and flossing, ensuring that your mouth remains free from harmful buildup. A thorough cleaning and exam offer the ideal opportunity for your hygienist and dentist to monitor your oral health, detect potential issues early, and address them before they escalate into more significant, costly, and painful problems.
In addition to promoting oral health, regular cleanings also contribute to a naturally brighter smile without the need for bleaching treatments. Here’s what regular cleanings do for your teeth:
- Eliminates plaque: This sticky film of bacteria can eat away at your enamel, leading to decay.
- Removes tartar build-up: Plaque that hardens into tartar can lead to gum disease if left unchecked.
- Clears stains: Get rid of stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and other foods and drinks.
- Monitors your oral health: Check for gum recession, chipped or broken teeth, and early signs of disease or infection.
Making routine dental visits a habit can save you from future dental problems, keeping your smile healthy and bright.
What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?
Gum Care
Your gums are essential to your overall oral health, and keeping them healthy is just as important as taking care of your teeth. During your cleaning, we focus on your gums, examining them closely to detect any signs of infection, swelling, or other potential issues. We’ll also review the health of the rest of your mouth, such as your tongue and the inside of your cheeks, to make sure everything is in good shape. If your gums show any signs of disease, we’ll offer advice on how to improve care at home to prevent further complications.
Removing Plaque & Tartar
Plaque is a sticky substance that forms naturally on your teeth and can lead to gum disease or cavities if not removed. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, which can’t be removed through regular brushing alone. Our dental hygienist will use special tools to gently remove plaque and tartar from all areas, even the hard-to-reach spots. Afterward, your teeth will be polished, leaving them smooth and free of any staining or built-up plaque.
Dentist’s Exam
Once your teeth have been cleaned, the dentist will conduct a thorough examination. They’ll check the overall health of your teeth, gums, and any previous dental work, such as fillings or crowns. If any areas require attention, the dentist will discuss potential treatments or follow-up care. This is also a good time to address any concerns or discomfort you might be experiencing. Whether it’s sensitivity or general oral health questions, we’re happy to provide guidance and support.
Cost of Teeth Cleaning in Belleville
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are a key preventive measure against oral health issues, which is why they are often well-covered by most insurance plans, typically every six months. If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost for a teeth cleaning session typically ranges from $120 to $300 or more, depending on factors such as whether it’s your first visit or your first cleaning in a long time.
- Your current oral health status.
- Whether new X-rays are necessary
- The time required by our dental team to address your specific needs.
- The materials and equipment necessary for your treatment.
We view these routine appointments as a critical part of maintaining long-term oral health. Regular cleanings help avoid more complex treatments, reduce the risk of severe dental issues, and ensure your ongoing comfort and well-being.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
We typically recommend a teeth cleaning and checkup every six months. However, depending on your specific oral health needs, your dentist may advise more frequent visits, or we may schedule appointments further apart if necessary due to insurance or cost considerations.
Don’t wait! If you experience any pain or discomfort in your mouth, contact us as soon as possible. While routine cleanings help prevent problems, they are not the only time to address any issues. Even if it seems minor, it’s better to address it early to prevent further complications.
Yes, absolutely! Checkups are essential for your entire oral health, not just your teeth. If you wear dentures, we still want to see you to ensure they fit well, are in good condition, and to monitor the health of your gums, tongue, and other soft tissues in your mouth.
Most dental cleanings take between 30 minutes to an hour, and the procedure is performed while you relax in a comfortable dental chair.
Yes! Use a tartar-control toothpaste with fluoride and make sure to floss daily. Flossing is the most effective way to remove plaque between your teeth, preventing tartar buildup in hard-to-reach areas. Using an antiseptic mouthwash daily can also help eliminate bacteria that cause plaque.
Yes, after a regular dental cleaning, you can eat right away. However, avoid acidic or abrasive foods and drinks. If you received a fluoride treatment during your cleaning, wait at least 30 minutes before eating to allow the fluoride to fully absorb.
Yes, continue to brush and floss your teeth after they have been cleaned to maintain the results of your visit and promote long-term oral health.
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