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No matter how often you brush, floss, and gargle (mouthwash), there are some dental deposits that cannot be removed at home. A mixture of saliva, food particles, and bacteria, dental plaque is the leading cause of gum disease and tooth decay. There's some of it in all of our mouths, but it can be kept in check with a comprehensive oral care routine. However, when plaque hardens and becomes tartar, all of the brushing and flossing in the world will not get rid of it. You must have your teeth professionally cleaned to protect your oral health. What Is Teeth Cleaning? A painless dental procedure that often takes under one hour, teeth cleaning starts with an ultrasonic cleaner and a water sprayer - two tools that help loosen plaque and tartar. These deposits can then be safely removed with a metal instrument called a hand scraper. Because it is calcified, tartar is more difficult to remove than plaque, especially when it spreads under the gumline. After the deposits have been scraped off, your dentist will brush your teeth with a special rotary toothbrush and a gritty type of toothpaste that polishes your pearly whites to a high shine. How Often Should You Have It Done? All adults should have their teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Because it is the most effective way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, most dentists perform teeth cleaning during routine examinations. It is also possible to schedule more frequent appointments if you have oral health issues, as certain conditions are linked to dental issues. Patients with chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes are often advised to get more regular cleanings. This is also true for anyone who has a history of gum disease and other periodontal problems. At-risk patients such as smokers and heavy drinkers should also consider more regular visits to their dentists, since both habits expedite tooth decay. How Much Does It Cost? Because dentists are free to charge what they like, teeth cleaning costs vary. As a preventative measure, the procedure is often covered by dental insurance. But if you do not have coverage, out-of-pocket costs often range between $50 and $150. We know - that's a pretty big range! But trust us when we say that even the priciest procedure beats the alternative. The most common problem people who neglect their oral health get is a painful infection that requires immediate treatment. The procedure that is needed to address this serious dental issue is called a root canal. In order to relieve the pain associated with the infection and to possibly save the affected tooth, patients pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for the procedure. Regular teeth cleaning can improve your oral health by dramatically reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and while most of us try to avoid the experience at all cost, preventative cleanings are certainly worth it in the long run. When it comes to teeth cleaning, Harrisburg residents can learn more about their options by visiting http://www.ccdentalcareharrisburgpa.com/teeth-cleaning/.
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