How Much Does Teeth Cleaning Cost?
Teeth cleaning or prophylaxis is performed in dental offices by a specialized dentist. Unlike daily at-home hygiene – brushing and flossing – this type of treatment involves analyzing each tooth individually and cleaning it.
In addition to examining the dental arch, the professional also assesses the inner part of the gum tissues. The main objective is to remove tartar, plaque, and stains from the teeth. This procedure is basically a way to prevent and treat cavities, as well as oral diseases such as gingivitis and periodontal diseases that can affect the patient's oral health and self-esteem.
Cleaning, scaling, and prophylaxis: what's the difference?
It's very common to hear these terms in the office – cleaning, scaling, and prophylaxis – as if they were the same thing. But, in practice, there are some differences, and you'll understand what they are below.
Teeth cleaning and prophylaxis
The term "cleaning" is the popular name for what we technically call prophylaxis. In this context, it is a procedure performed with the aim of removing bacterial plaque, surface tartar, and light stains, leaving the teeth clean and healthier.
Scraping
Scaling, on the other hand, is a different procedure because it is deeper. It is usually indicated when there is a buildup of tartar below the gum line. In other words, in areas that we cannot reach with a toothbrush or dental floss. Furthermore, scraping can be done with manual instruments or with ultrasound devices, and sometimes it is necessary to divide the treatment into more than one session.
How much does a teeth cleaning cost?
If you're thinking about scheduling an appointment, you've probably already wondered how much a teeth cleaning costs. After all, this is one of the most common procedures in the office and also one of the most recommended for maintaining good oral health. Generally, the cost of a teeth cleaning done in a dentist's office usually ranges between $75 and $200, without insurance. Most insurances cover the cost of cleaning, however. The cost depends on several factors, such as the clinic's structure, the staff's experience, and the resources used during patient care.
What are the steps in teeth cleaning?
As we mentioned, this type of dental treatment should be performed by specialists. This is because there are several steps that need to be taken to ensure the final result meets patients' expectations. Furthermore, only with the right instruments and accessories will it be possible to clean teeth.
Here are the steps:
- Tartar identification
The first stage of teeth cleaning involves the complete removal of dental calculus, commonly known as tartar. This is done using an ultrasound device that emits vibrations to break up the tartar deposits attached to the surface of the teeth.
Daily brushing and flossing alone won't remove this problem, so you need to see your trusted dentist to determine if you have tartar and schedule an appointment to have it cleaned as soon as possible.
- Refining and extraction
The second step, after using ultrasound to break up the plaque, is the refinement and removal stage. It is at this point that tartar is scraped away using manual curettes—an instrument used in dentistry.
Plaque removal is performed on the coronal portion of the teeth, gently entering the gingival sulcus—the skin around the teeth.
- Polishing the tooth surface
Another step that cannot be forgotten in teeth cleaning is polishing the teeth that have been filed and cleaned, free of tartar. At this point, the dentist begins by polishing the surface, leaving it smooth. Thus, it is possible to prevent the formation of new bacterial plaque and tartar on the tooth.
- Final step: fluoride application
To complete the treatment fully, the dentist responsible for the teeth cleaning needs to apply fluoride, a chemical element used in dental offices, to prevent cavities and halitosis.
In Conclusion
Teeth cleaning is a relatively inexpensive step in your total oral hygiene and care. Costing anywhere from $75-$200 without insurance, it represents a very important part of keeping your smile healthy and clean. Contact us today to find out more!