What is the Cost of Dental Cleaning?

Dental Hygiene Maintenance – Cleaning Types, Prices & Tips

Dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a procedure that involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and surrounding gum tissue. It is provided to patients twice a year as part of a regular check-up. It is a crucial aspect of maintaining good oral health.  

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial as it prevents dental problems such as gum disease and cavities. Additionally, it reduces the risk of underlying heart disease and diabetes.

What is Dental Cleaning?

Professionals perform a generalised dental procedure to remove tartar buildup and plaque from gums and teeth. This procedure removes bacteria and food deposits that cannot be flushed away through regular brushing.

How Much Does a Dental Cleaning Cost?

Prevalent gum disease and gum decay can cause difficulties in speaking and eating comfortably. In India, the basic cost of dental or teeth cleaning generally ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 6,000. Basic polishing and scaling typically cost between Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000, whereas advanced scaling or deep cleaning costs between Rs. 1,200 and Rs. 6,000.

What are the Signs of Tooth Decay?

Sometimes, it is not possible to detect a tiny cavity at home. Thus, visiting a dentist can help them provide cures and remedies for cavities. At specific points, a cavity will start showing symptoms like:

• Toothache: Increased pain or throbbing in the tooth while eating or drinking something cold or hot.
• Sensitivity: A Decayed tooth becomes more sensitive to temperature changes after drinking something cold or hot.
• Dark Spots in the Tooth: A discoloured, dark, or white spot in the affected tooth may indicate several gum diseases.
• Swollen Gums: Red or swollen gums are sometimes observed in cases of tooth decay, especially closer to the tooth area.
• Bad Breath: If bad breath persists after brushing your teeth, it may be a sign of tooth decay or a cavity.

What are the Types of Dental Cleanings? 

There are various types of dental cleanings tailored to the specific needs of patients with dental problems. Let us discuss the different types of dental cleanings to remove bacteria and food debris:

Gross Debridement

Gross debridement, also known as ‘gross scale’, is a complete cleaning procedure to remove calculus and plaque from the teeth. Special instruments and routine cleaning are required to remove the hardened deposits.

Scaling and Root Planing

It is part of the deep dental cleaning procedure to treat gum disease like periodontitis. This involves the removal of tartar and plaque from below the gum line and roots.

Prophylaxis

It is done on patients who have healthy teeth and gums. Prophylaxis is the most common dental cleaning procedure. This is done during routine checkups for patients who are susceptible to various gum diseases or cavities.  

What are the procedure details for dental cleaning?

Procedures that are commonly performed in a dental cleaning include:

Dental X-rays

Most patients require dental X-rays every six to 36 months as part of a routine checkup to assess plaque or tartar buildup. In the event of any issue that requires regular monitoring, they must undergo frequent X-rays. Routine X-rays are essential for the diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions.

Preventive Treatments

Dentists sometimes recommend preventive services, such as dental sealants or fluoride treatments, depending on the individual's oral health needs. If anyone has crevices on their back teeth, such as premolars or molars, getting dental sealants can help protect these regions from bacteria. Fluoride treatments are essential for strengthening the enamel.  

Scaling

After a complete diagnosis, the dentist will use different hand instruments called scalers to clean and remove tartar and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Sometimes, they use an ultrasonic scaler equipped with a water jet to isolate the debris properly.    

Polishing

On completion of plaque or debris removal, dentists will polish the teeth using a mixture of pumice powder or a soft rubber cup. It helps remove biofilm without damaging the enamel.

Dental cleanings are a crucial part of maintaining healthy oral hygiene. Preventive treatments are more affordable than restorative treatments.   

Also Read:

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