The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist at least once a year to get a routine examination and cleaning. If you have a history of periodontal disease, you should get your teeth cleaned more often in order to prevent the recurrence of infections or disease.
During a teeth cleaning, a dental hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and stains to improve oral health. The process begins with a physical exam to check for signs of gum disease or cavities. Next, the hygienist uses a scaler to gently scrape away tartar and plaque from the teeth and along the gumline. This is followed by high-powered brushing with a gritty toothpaste to remove remaining debris and polish the teeth. Afterward, flossing is performed to clean between teeth and ensure no residue remains. A rinse is used to wash away any leftover particles, often containing fluoride for added protection. In many cases, a fluoride treatment is applied to strengthen the enamel and prevent decay. Throughout the process, the hygienist may offer tips for improving oral hygiene and discuss any concerns. Teeth cleaning helps maintain healthy gums, prevent cavities, and keep your smile bright.
Regular teeth cleanings are essential for everyone, regardless of age or dental health. Children should start getting professional cleanings as soon as their teeth emerge to establish good oral hygiene habits and ensure their teeth develop properly. Adults benefit greatly from regular cleanings, as these visits help prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss, while also promoting a brighter, healthier smile.
Individuals with braces or other orthodontic devices should prioritize cleanings because these appliances make it harder to clean teeth thoroughly at home. People with a history of gum disease or significant dental issues, such as frequent cavities, also require regular cleanings to monitor and maintain their oral health. Smokers or those who consume high amounts of sugary or acidic foods are at higher risk for dental problems and should schedule cleanings more frequently to offset potential damage.
Even if you brush and floss diligently, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, making professional cleanings vital for maintaining overall oral health. Additionally, regular cleanings allow your dentist to identify potential problems early, preventing costly or painful treatments later. Ultimately, anyone who wants to keep their teeth and gums healthy and avoid serious dental complications should make routine cleanings part of their healthcare routine.
Dental insurance can often seem complicated, but one key benefit to remember is that most plans include two free teeth cleanings per year!
The majority of dental insurance plans prioritize preventive care, covering two annual cleanings—also known as hygiene or prophylaxis visits—at 100%. This means you won’t pay anything out of pocket for these visits, as the insurance company takes care of the cost. This setup encourages regular dental visits, helping to catch potential issues early, before they become painful or expensive. Regular cleanings, which typically include a brief exam, are vital for maintaining good oral health and preventing problems down the line.
For most patients with healthy teeth who haven’t experienced dental injuries or pursued cosmetic treatments, cleanings are the main reason for visiting the dentist. While you won’t pay directly for these visits, the cost is deducted from your annual cleaning benefits under your insurance plan.
The average cost of a teeth cleaning in NY is between $99 and $550 at the most. Most practices charge from around $150 to $400 for a teeth cleaning. At Master Dental we charge $140 for the teeth cleaing on it's own and examination. For a teeth cleaning with examination and x-rays we charge $300.00. If you have insurance we will not need to charge you as this will be covered by your insurance provided that you have not maximised your insurance. Our office manager Valeria will work with your insurance company to make sure that you have maximized all of your plan. This will allow us to give you a teeth cleaning without a charge. Most insurance companies allow for two cleanings per year.
Only if you have a pre-existing condition should you get your teeth cleaned more than every six months. While performing the procedure, they will be able to see if any area is showing signs of residual cleaning issues. The hygienist can recommend new or alternative cleaning methods, to ensure no teeth are susceptible to decay caused by insufficient cleaning practices. Ask you dentist about any food and drink habits you’re concerned could affect the health and appearance of your teeth.
If you haven’t had a teeth cleaning in a while, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Regular cleanings are essential because they remove plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be removed with brushing alone. Left untreated, plaque can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. During the cleaning, the dentist can also check for early signs of issues like cavities, gum inflammation, and oral cancer. Regular visits help prevent painful and costly dental problems, keeping your teeth and gums healthy and improving your overall oral health.
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure aimed at treating gum disease and preventing its progression. Unlike regular cleanings, which focus on surface plaque and tartar, deep cleaning goes beneath the gumline to remove bacterial buildup. The dentist or hygienist first uses a scaler to eliminate plaque and tartar from pockets around the teeth. Then, they smooth (or plane) the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach, reducing pocket depth and further bacterial growth. Deep cleaning is essential for managing gum disease, preventing bone loss, and restoring gum health.
