What Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Look Like? Costs, Tools, and More
When it comes to maintaining oral health, understanding the different types of dental cleanings is crucial. Here, we’ll delve into what a deep teeth cleaning involves, its costs, and why various dental tools are used.
1. What is a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
A deep teeth cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure aimed at treating gum disease and removing plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line1. Unlike routine cleanings, which focus on the surface of the teeth, deep cleanings target the roots and pockets around the gums.
2. How Much Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Cost?
The cost of a deep teeth cleaning can vary widely depending on the severity of the gum disease and the dentist’s location. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $350 per quadrant of the mouth2. Some dental insurance plans may cover part of the cost, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
3. Why Do We Have So Many Dental Cleaning Tools?
Dental cleaning tools are designed to address different aspects of oral hygiene. Here are some commonly used tools:
Ultrasonic Scaler: Uses vibrations to break off hard deposits like tartar and stains.
Curettes and Scalers: Hand tools used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line.
Polishing Tools: Smooth the surface of the teeth after cleaning to prevent future plaque buildup.
4. Do You Need a Routine Cleaning or a Deep Cleaning?
The type of cleaning you need depends on several factors, including dental x-rays, visual exams, and gum measurements3. Routine cleanings are for patients with good oral hygiene and no gum disease, while deep cleanings are recommended for those with signs of gum disease, such as inflamed or receding gums.
5. How Do X-Rays Help?
X-rays are essential in identifying buildup or bone loss around the teeth4. They provide a clear picture of areas that are not visible during a regular visual exam.
6. What Does a Visual Exam Show?
A visual exam helps in assessing the color and health of the gums. Dark or red gums often indicate inflammation, which may necessitate a deep cleaning5.
7. What is Calculus?
Calculus, also known as tartar, is a yellow deposit that forms when plaque hardens on the teeth. It can only be removed by professional dental tools.
8. What Are Gum Measurements?
Gum measurements help in checking for deep pockets around the gums. Healthy gums typically have measurements of 2 to 3 millimeters. Deeper pockets may indicate gum disease.
9. Why Might You Need a Deep Cleaning?
If your gums are red and inflamed, a deep cleaning might be recommended to remove buildup and reduce inflammation. This procedure cleans both above and below the gum line.
10. What Happens After a Deep Cleaning?
Post-deep cleaning, regular maintenance is crucial to keep your gums healthy. This includes follow-up visits every three to four months.
Understanding these aspects can help you make informed decisions about your dental care. Regular visits to the dentist and proper oral hygiene can prevent the need for more invasive procedures like deep cleanings.
1: Healthline 2: Dentaly 3: Colgate 4: NewMouth 5: Charles Ashley Mann : Healthline : Dentaly : Colgate : NewMouth
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions about dental cleanings!
