Dental Cleaning in Littleton, CO
There is no underestimating the value of a bright and healthy smile. Few things can ruin a smile faster than the presence of plaque and tartar but don’t worry! With regular teeth cleanings, you can easily maintain the beauty and functionality of your smile.
Why Professional Teeth Cleanings Are Necessary
Proper oral hygiene is the key to a healthy smile. However, brushing and flossing at home is not always enough to maintain your dental health. Even with regular oral care at home, there are many gaps and crevices in your teeth where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. Because of this, having your teeth routinely cleaned at the dentist is necessary.
Dental Cleaning Benefits
There are many benefits to having your teeth cleaned professionally that you cannot achieve with over-the-counter cleaning methods.
- Professional cleanings involve tools and techniques specially designed to reach the parts of your mouth that a toothbrush can’t, which helps eliminate and prevent plaque and tartar buildup more effectively.
- Plaque is a sticky and nearly invisible bacterial colony that forms on the surface of your teeth. If left alone, plaque will eventually harden into tartar, which only a professional cleaning can remove.
- Preventive dental cleanings will cost you far less money than more complex corrective dental procedures such as root canals or dental bridges.
In general, you should receive a professional teeth cleaning every six months if your teeth and gums are healthy. However, if you are at an increased risk of periodontal disease, tooth decay, or other oral problems, you may need to schedule cleaning more often.
What Happens at a Dental Cleaning?
During the dental cleaning, your hygienist will use a small mirror to examine your teeth and gums for any signs of cavities, tooth decay, or gum disease, as well as any deposits of plaque or tartar. If any problems are discovered, they will consult with a dentist to ensure that it’s okay to proceed with cleaning.
To start, the hygienist will scrape any hard mineral buildup from the surface of your teeth by using a tool called a periodontal scaler or curette. This way, any hard plaque or tartar deposits can be broken up and more easily removed with a brush. Once the majority of plaque and tartar is removed, your hygienist will use a gritty paste to polish and clean the surface of your teeth further. Unlike the store-bought toothpaste you use at home, this toothpaste contains abrasive compounds that scrub the smaller particles of plaque and tartar from your teeth. Next, to further eliminate any debris in your teeth, your hygienist will use floss to get between your teeth before rinsing out your mouth. You should not experience pain or intense discomfort during a teeth cleaning.
Happiness Is Loving Your Smile
Providing a positive dental experience to patients of all ages
General Dental Cleaning Cost
Dental cleaning services are considered preventative care, so most insurance programs will cover cleanings. Check with your specific provider if you are unsure about what is covered.
If you don’t have dental benefits, we have options designed to take as much care of your budget as we do for your teeth. We have a new patient special offer ongoing for kids at $149 and at $199 for adults that includes exams, X-rays, and routine cleaning. In addition, we offer a membership program at an annual cost of $449 that covers many services, including two dental exams and cleanings per year. Membership also grants access to discounts on dental and orthodontic treatments, including cosmetic procedures. Consider enrollment in our membership program to lower the cost of your dental procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Cleanings
Why is professional teeth cleaning necessary if I brush and floss daily?
Brushing and flossing are essential, but they are not enough on their own. Plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with a toothbrush or dental floss. That’s why you need professional cleanings to remove stubborn buildup from hard-to-reach areas.
Dental cleanings are also crucial for detecting problems that may have gone unnoticed at home. Think of cleanings as routine maintenance. They keep minor issues from turning into significant headaches.
Who needs routine dental cleanings?
Everyone! Patients of all ages need them, including children, teens, adults, and seniors. Here is how we tailor care for every age group.
- Children and teens: We offer gentle cleanings and teach proper oral hygiene habits.
- Adults: We provide thorough cleanings while monitoring early signs of decay, periodontal disease, and tooth wear.
- Seniors: We monitor dry mouth, exposed roots, and oral health problems related to systemic conditions.
Does teeth cleaning hurt?
Dental cleaning is usually not painful. However, patients with sensitive gums or significant tartar buildup may experience mild discomfort. Let us know if teeth cleaning makes you uncomfortable. Good communication keeps the experience easy.
How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned?
Twice a year is the standard. However, some patients need three or four visits a year. Your schedule depends on gum health, medical history, and your risk for decay. Our team will provide a personalized timeline tailored to your unique needs.
What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gum line. It’s necessary as a preventive step against tooth decay, periodontal disease, and bad breath. A deep cleaning is different. It’s recommended when you are clinically diagnosed with gum disease. It removes deep-seated plaque and tartar to help the gum tissue heal and reattach. Deep cleaning typically requires local anesthesia and may need more than one visit.
Is teeth cleaning safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Cleanings are very safe and beneficial for pregnant mothers. Pregnancy-related hormones can increase sensitivity to plaque buildup, causing pregnancy gingivitis. Routine cleanings help control infections, which is essential for the mother and baby.
What if I am behind with routine dental cleanings?
Do not worry! You are not alone. Many patients skip routine care due to costs, time constraints, and other factors. The important part is starting again. The dentist will examine your gums and teeth and help you get back on track. If there is heavy buildup, we’ll recommend more frequent cleanings or deep cleaning.
How much does a professional teeth cleaning cost at High Forest Dental?
The average cost of a dental cleaning is $150, but this price may vary depending on the extent of plaque and tartar buildup. However, please note that additional treatments or the need for deep cleaning may increase the cost. Our office will provide a cost breakdown after consultation.
Does insurance cover professional teeth cleaning?
Yes! Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, including dental cleanings and exams. However, coverage varies among different providers. Our team will verify your benefits, allowing you to proceed with confidence. Don’t have insurance? Don’t stress out! You can ask about our in-house membership plan. It includes two annual dental cleanings and other preventive services.
How can I find reliable dental cleaning services near me in Littleton?
High Forest Dental offers dental cleanings as part of preventive dental care. If it’s been over six months since your last dental cleaning, it’s never too late to achieve your healthy smile. Call (303) 951-3717 and schedule your next cleaning appointment with our dental team.
Teeth Cleanings at High Forest Dental
At High Forest Dental, we do everything we can to ensure that the patients of Littleton, CO feel like our family. We build trust with our patients and form lasting relationships based on comfort and meeting their needs. And our membership program, discount plans, and family pricing allow you to worry less about your budget and focus more on your oral health. So, please call (303) 951-3717 today to schedule an appointment with us for your teeth cleaning, and let us give you the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
