Teeth Cleaning

Keeping your teeth clean and healthy is crucial for maintaining your oral hygiene and overall well-being. Professional teeth cleaning by Dr. Prior removes plaque buildup and stains, preventing cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. At 100 West Dental in Ballwin, we provide thorough dental cleaning tailored to your unique needs. Here's more about our teeth cleaning and whitening services.

What is a Dental Cleaning?

A dental tooth cleaning is a preventative procedure where a hygienist scales and polishes your teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats your teeth if not removed daily through brushing and flossing. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar that sticks to teeth. Both can lead to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath if left untreated.

During a cleaning, your hygienist will use specialized tools to scrape and scrub away built-up plaque and tartar above and below your gumline. A polish with a gritty toothpaste then smooths and shines your teeth. The process removes stains for a brighter, whiter smile. Cleanings make it easier to keep your teeth plaque-free with daily brushing and flossing.

Why Choose Professional Dental Cleanings?

While diligent daily brushing and flossing is crucial, it can't fully remove plaque and tartar in hard-to-reach spots. Even the most dedicated at-home regimen allows some buildup between teeth and under the gumline. Over time tartar can:

• Cause tooth decay and permanent enamel damage

• Lead to inflamed gums, gingivitis and periodontitis

• Require more invasive dental treatments

Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Your hygienist has specialized tools and training for a deeper clean of the tooth roots, grooves, and gum pockets. Thorough teeth cleaning dentists keep your mouth healthy by:

• Removing tartar before it can harden and cause gum disease

• Catching cavities early so they are easier to fill

• Improving bad breath by eliminating bacteria and plaque

• Polishing away stains for a brighter, whiter smile

• Allowing early diagnosis of developing oral health issues

Regular cleanings complement daily brushing and flossing between visits. Consistent professional care offers the most effective and affordable way to prevent oral health problems.

Who Needs Regular Dental Cleanings?

The American Dental Association recommends most people get professional dental teeth cleaning every 6 months. Some individuals require more frequent cleanings at 3 or 4-month intervals. Factors like your oral hygiene routine, health conditions, medications, and susceptibility to plaque buildup determine your ideal cleaning schedule.

More frequent dental cleanings are often recommended for those at a higher risk of oral health issues. People likely to need teeth cleanings every 3 to 4 months include:

• Those with a history of gum disease, cavities or other issues

• Individuals taking medications that cause dry mouth

• Smokers and tobacco users

• Those with braces or dental appliances

• People with health issues like diabetes or autoimmune disorders

• Expectant mothers due to hormonal changes

Your dentist will evaluate your oral health at routine exams to determine if more frequent cleanings could benefit your teeth and gums. Be sure to voice any concerns you have about your oral hygiene to your dentist as well.

What to Expect During Your Cleaning

Your teeth cleaning appointment begins with a quick exam of your teeth, gums, tongue, and other tissues. Digital x-rays, measurements of gum pockets, and an oral cancer screening may be performed. Your hygienist will ask about any pain, sensitivities, or changes since your last visit.

Next, plaque and tartar removal begins. As your hygienist scales each tooth, they may use an ultrasonic device that loosens buildup with gentle vibrations. Hand tools will scrape off plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. Though you may hear scraping sounds, the process is painless if your gums are healthy.

After a thorough scaling, your teeth will be polished. A gritty toothpaste is applied with a rubber cup or brush to smooth your enamel. This removes stains and creates a lustrous surface that makes it harder for plaque to stick.

Finally, Dr. Prior will come in to check your cleaning and do a thorough examination. Additional preventive treatments like sealants or fluoride may be applied as needed. Review any concerns and schedule your next visit before you head home with a brighter, healthier smile.

Cost of Professional Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are an affordable investment compared to the costs of treating oral health problems. With insurance, your out-of-pocket expense is often under $100. The national average cost of a routine dental teeth cleaning is $80 to $250.

Factors impacting the cost of your cleaning include:

• Your insurance plan’s co-pays, coinsurance, and deductibles

• Needed x-rays or additional preventive treatments

• Whether you see a general dentist or periodontist

• Your region and individual dentist’s rates

Without insurance, regular dental care typically exceeds $600 per year. The 100 Club VIP Membership makes tailored dental care more affordable and convenient for those without insurance. No deductibles, no hidden fees, no waiting periods. Sign up today for Individual or Family discounts on routine teeth cleanings, exams, and x-rays!

The Benefits of Teeth Cleaning at 100 West Dental

At 100 West Dental, Dr. Prior and our skilled hygienists provide gentle, thorough dental cleanings tailored to your unique oral health needs. We take time to listen and make your visit comfortable and hassle-free. Our Ballwin office features amenities like massaging chairs, TVs, and music options, so you can relax during your cleaning.

Our comprehensive cleanings leave you with a brighter, healthier smile by:

• Removing hardened tartar with specialized tools

• Checking for signs of decay and other emerging issues

• Polishing away stains for a whiter smile

• Educating you on better at-home oral hygiene

• Providing a customized plan based on your oral health

We also offer sedation dentistry to help anxious patients feel at ease throughout their cleaning and dental exam. Our compassionate staff provides the outstanding care that has earned 100 West Dental recognition as a St. Louis A-List top cosmetic dentistry provider.

Schedule a Teeth Cleaning in Ballwin, MO Today

Consistent professional dental cleanings are your best defense against preventable oral health issues.  Schedule your teeth cleaning with our office today, or start with a Virtual Consultation with Dr. Prior. We look forward to giving you the bright, healthy smile you deserve through preventative care and annual dental cleaning.

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