Take Care of Your Teeth and Gums
Routine teeth cleanings and checkups are vital for maintaining your oral health, including your teeth, gums, and the entire mouth. Cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause decay, gum disease, and bad breath. A hygienist can reach areas that brushing and flossing at home miss, allowing for early detection of issues before they become painful or costly.
Regular cleanings also help your teeth appear naturally whiter without the need for bleaching.
Benefits include:
- Eliminating plaque, which contains bacteria that damages enamel
- Removing tartar buildup that can lead to gum disease
- Reducing stains from coffee, tea, or other foods
- Checking for gum recession, chips, and signs of infection or disease
What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?
Gum Health
Your gums are essential for supporting your teeth and framing your smile, yet they are often overlooked. During your cleaning, we closely examine your gums, teeth, tongue, and all other areas of your mouth, with extra focus on the gum line. We’ll check for any signs of inflammation or early gum disease. Don’t worry, we won’t be too hard on you about your flossing habits!
Plaque & Tartar Removal
Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on your teeth, and if not removed through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can harden into tartar. Tartar, often darker in color, tends to accumulate along the gumline and in hard-to-reach spots. Our hygienist has the proper tools and expertise to safely remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing your teeth to remove stains and leave your smile shining.
Dentist Exam
Once your teeth are clean, the dentist will review your x-rays and chart, focusing on any areas of concern. They may recommend additional treatments or provide advice on preventing further issues like tooth decay or gum disease. We’re always happy to answer any questions or discuss any discomfort or sensitivity you may have experienced.
Cost of Teeth Cleaning in Ruston
Routine checkups and cleanings are an excellent way to prevent dental problems, and most insurance plans cover them fully on a regular basis, typically every 6 months. If you’re without dental insurance, you can expect to pay between $120 and $300 or more, especially if it’s your first visit or you’ve skipped cleanings for a while.
- Your current oral health
- Whether new x-rays are needed
- The amount of time the dental team needs to address your specific needs
- The equipment and supplies required to provide comprehensive care
The actual cost of your treatment depends on several factors:
These routine appointments are crucial to us, as they’re the most effective way to avoid more invasive treatments, prevent serious dental pain, and help you maintain a healthy, happy smile.
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
We typically recommend getting your teeth cleaned and checked every 6 months. However, depending on your specific needs, the dentist may suggest more frequent visits. In some cases, we may schedule appointments further apart, especially for insurance or cost reasons.
Don’t wait! If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort, contact us immediately. Cleanings are a great way to prevent issues, but they’re not the only time to address them. Even if your concern seems minor, it’s best to let us know now so we can take care of it before it becomes a bigger problem.
Absolutely. Regular checkups are important for your entire mouth – gums, tongue, bones, and all. Even if you wear dentures, we still want to see you to ensure your dentures are in good condition and fit properly, as well as to examine the rest of your oral health.
Most dental cleanings take between 30 minutes to an hour on average. The procedure is performed while you’re comfortably reclined in a dental chair.
Yes, you can! Use tartar-control toothpaste with fluoride to help protect your teeth. While brushing is important, dental floss is the only way to remove plaque between your teeth and prevent tartar from forming in those hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, rinse daily with an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill the bacteria that cause plaque buildup.
After a regular dental cleaning, you can eat right away, but it’s best to avoid acidic or abrasive foods and drinks. If you had a fluoride treatment during your cleaning, wait at least 30 minutes before eating anything.
Yes, continuing to brush and floss after your cleaning is the best way to maintain the results and keep your teeth healthy.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
