Take Care Of Your Teeth And Gums
Having routine teeth cleaning and a checkup is one of the most critical steps you can take to preserve your oral health including not just your teeth but your gums and the rest of your mouth– inside and out. Cleaning removes plaque, tartar and bacteria that cause decay, gum disease and chronic bad breath. A hygienist is able to get into areas that aren’t easy to reach with routine brushing and flossing at home. A thorough cleaning and exam give the hygienist and dentist the perfect opportunity to monitor your oral health and spot problems that can be resolved or avoided altogether before they become painful and expensive.
Plus, regular teeth cleaning can help your teeth look whiter and brighter naturally, without the need for bleaching treatments.
Regular teeth cleanings:
- Eliminate plaque, a sticky substance containing bacteria that eats away your enamel.
- Remove tartar build-up, plaque that has hardened and could lead to gum disease.
- Get rid of coffee, tea or other stains on your teeth.
- Check for receding gums, chipped or broken teeth and other signs of disease and infection.
Your Teeth Cleaning At Tomken Dental: What To Expect
A Gum Health Check
The significance of gum health is often overlooked, despite its crucial role in supporting your teeth and enhancing your smile. During your visit, we will thoroughly examine your tongue, gums, teeth, and all areas of your mouth, with particular attention to the gum line. Our goal is to ensure optimal oral health by detecting and addressing any signs of inflammation or potential gum disease. Rest assured, we won’t be too strict about your flossing habits. Our focus is on promoting a healthy mouth for you without judgment.
Plaque & Tartar Removal
Plaque, a soft and sticky film, accumulates on your teeth and requires regular cleaning through diligent brushing, flossing, and professional attention. If left unaddressed, it can harden into tartar deposits. Tartar, which is often darker in colour, tends to form in challenging-to-clean areas like the gumline. Fortunately, a hygienist possesses the necessary tools and expertise to gently remove stubborn plaque and tartar from inaccessible areas. Once this process is complete, your teeth can be polished, eliminating stains and leaving them with a radiant gleam.
Dental Health Exam
Following the cleaning of your teeth, it is an opportune moment for a comprehensive dental examination by your dentist. They will carefully review your dental chart and x-rays, paying close attention to any areas of concern or recurring issues. Based on their assessment, the dentist may suggest additional treatments or provide guidance on how to effectively address tooth decay, inflammation, or gum disease, offering tips and advice. We are here to address any queries you may have and listen to any discomfort, sensitivity, or dental pain you have experienced, ensuring your oral health needs are met with care and understanding.
The Cost Of Teeth Cleanings
Routine checkups and cleanings are an excellent preventive measure to avoid dental problems, which is why most insurance companies provide substantial coverage for these services on a routine basis, typically every 6 months. If you don’t have dental insurance, the cost can range from $120 to $300 or more, particularly for your first visit or if it’s been a while since your last cleaning.
To determine the precise cost of your treatment, we consider several important factors:
- Your current oral health condition.
- The need for any new x-rays.
- The amount of time required by our dental team to address your specific needs.
- The equipment and supplies necessary to fulfill all your requirements.
We consider these routine appointments as highly important, as they are the most effective way to prevent more extensive treatments, alleviate serious dental pain, and maintain your overall happiness 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
For most individuals, it is advisable to have regular dental appointments every six months. However, some individuals may require more frequent checkups based on their specific oral health needs, while those with excellent oral health may be able to extend the time between visits. The frequency of dental visits can be tailored to individual circumstances to ensure optimal oral health care.
In the event of a dental emergency, it is crucial not to wait until your next scheduled checkup. Please contact us immediately to arrange an emergency visit. Just as regular dental cleanings aid in the prevention of dental issues, addressing a dental concern early, while it is still small, can help avoid the need for extensive treatment. We prioritize prompt care and are here to assist you promptly and effectively.
During regular dental checkups, we provide comprehensive care regardless of whether you have natural teeth or wear a denture. We will carefully assess the fit of your denture, examine the health of your gums and jawbone, review your oral hygiene routine, and perform a meticulous professional cleaning of your denture. Our goal is to ensure the continued well-being of your oral health, even if you no longer have natural teeth.
A typical teeth cleaning appointment generally lasts around 30 minutes per person, although the duration may vary depending on the extent of tartar and plaque buildup. It is advisable for patients to allocate approximately an hour for their cleaning appointment at the dental office, as this will also encompass a comprehensive dental health checkup conducted by the dentist.
Preventing tartar buildup can be achieved by following a robust oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and incorporating mouthwash into your routine. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups every six months are crucial as well. Furthermore, minimizing consumption of sugary and starchy foods and drinks can help prevent plaque buildup, subsequently reducing the risk of tartar formation. By maintaining these practices, you can effectively safeguard against tartar-related oral health issues.
After getting your teeth cleaned, it is generally recommended to wait for at least 30 minutes to an hour before eating. This allows sufficient time for any fluoride treatment applied during the cleaning to fully absorb into your teeth. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid consuming hard, sticky, or crunchy foods immediately after the cleaning, as they can potentially damage or dislodge any dental work you may have. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the best outcomes from your dental cleaning and maintain the integrity of your oral health.