What Are Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings, or prophylaxis, are routine procedures done by dentists and dental hygienist teams to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. By visiting your dentist twice a year for dental cleanings, you can help keep your smile sparkling and your oral health in pristine condition.
Our Wasilla dentist is gladly welcoming new patients to his dental office. Contact our dental team today to schedule your appointment!
Types of Dental Cleanings
While most patients know of the basic routine cleaning that’s done at their biannual appointments, there are several other dental cleaning procedures.
Regular Dental Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings are the most common type and are recommended for those with good oral health. During the dental cleaning process, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth. This type of cleaning is recommended twice a year as part of routine dental care.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, or deep cleaning, is recommended for those with moderate to severe gum disease. During scaling and root planing, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. They’ll also smooth out the roots of your teeth to prevent future buildup. Depending on the condition of your oral health, the procedure can take one or two sessions to complete.
Periodontal Maintenance
A periodontal maintenance cleaning is done after scaling and root planing to maintain the health of the gums. During periodontal maintenance, your dentist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup that’s accumulated since your last deep cleaning. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are typically done every three to four months.
Gross Debridement
Gross debridement cleaning isn’t your typical dental cleaning. It’s done to remove plaque and tartar buildup that’s too excessive for a regular cleaning. This procedure is necessary when there’s so much buildup that it makes it difficult for the dentist to perform a thorough oral examination. The gums may be swollen, and the buildup must be removed before a prophylaxis or dental exam can be completed.
Who Needs Dental Cleanings?
Everyone should get a dental cleaning at least twice a year, even those who maintain good oral hygiene habits. Even if you brush and floss your teeth well, some areas are hard to clean properly at home.
Those with underlying dental issues or a history of gum disease may require more frequent cleanings. Our Wasilla dentist will inform you how often you should visit our office for dental cleanings.
Routine Dental Cleaning Benefits
There are several benefits to dental cleanings, including:
- Plaque and tartar removal
- Prevention of gum disease, cavities, and other unwanted issues
- Early detection of oral health problems
- Fresher breath
- Stain removal and teeth polishing
- Yearly oral cancer screenings
- Overall better health
Costs of a Dental Cleaning
Dental cleanings are a relativity inexpensive dental treatment and can save patients money in the long run. The cost of a dental cleaning at Northwind Dental will depend on several factors including your insurance coverage and the state of your oral health.
Contact our Wasilla dental team to learn more about the costs of dental care at our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, dental cleanings are typically painless. You may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will provide you with post-operative instructions after the cleaning.
A dental cleaning typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. However, the length of your procedure depends on the type of cleaning and the extent of buildup on your teeth.
Yes, you can eat after a dental cleaning, but your general dentist will recommend avoiding eating or drinking anything too hot or cold for a few hours after the procedure.
Many dental insurance plans cover regular cleanings, but coverage may vary depending on your plan. However, you should always check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and know about any out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.
Visit Dr. Dawson at Northwind Dental
Dental cleanings, regardless of the type, are essential for maintaining good oral health and avoiding dental problems in the future.
If you’re wondering where to start to achieve pristine oral health, learn how to find the best general dentist for you and your needs. For those in the Wasilla, AK, area, contact our dentist today. With years of experience in general dentistry, you can rest assured that our dentist will help you find the best treatment option for your oral health needs.
Call our dental office today at (907) 373-2440.