Teeth Cleaning

There are different types of dental cleanings depending on the severity of the issue. If it’s been more than a year since your last dental cleaning, a deep cleaning may be necessary. Deep dental cleaning consists of all the regular aspects of a routine dental cleaning in addition to gross debridement and root planing.

Gross debridement is when the removal of plaque and tartar is extensive. Root planing is when the dental hygienist cleans below the gum line to flush out bacteria and tartar. Generally, root planing is only done when mild to moderate gum disease is present because going deep into the gums typically requires local anesthesia for pain management.

Most dental cleanings take between 30 and 60 minutes. The length of time depends on how much buildup is present. If your cleaning includes debridement and root planing, then it can take longer than 60 minutes.

Teeth cleaning costs without insurance can range significantly from around $100 to a few hundred dollars depending on your location, your age, and other factors. 

At Absolute Dental’s Reno locations, you can expect to pay $270 for a bundled deal that includes dental X-Rays, an exam, and dental cleaning. Ask about Absolute Dental’s Smile Saver program which will help you save money. Absolute Dental is also happy to accept most dental insurance plans.

Dental cleanings will go faster and more smoothly if you take proper care of your oral health at home. When it comes to brushing and flossing, the technique is important:

• Brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (replace every 3 to 4 months)
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Point the brush toward your gum line at a 45-degree angle and move the brush gently back and forth
• Brush the inside surfaces of the teeth by holding the toothbrush vertically and gently brushing back and forth
• Ensure that all teeth get passed over multiple times
• After you’re done brushing, rinse the brush until it is clean and store it upright in a clean cup to allow it to dry to reduce bacteria growth

Flossing the “old fashioned way” (with string floss) at least once a day is the best way to clean in between your teeth.

• Get a long piece of string floss (about 18 inches long)
• Gently wrap the floss around your middle finger
• Grab the other end of the floss with the index finger and thumb of your other hand
• Begin flossing by gently putting the string between your teeth
• Gently move the floss up and down to clean the side of each tooth
• Be sure to unravel the floss on your middle finger every few teeth so that you’re always putting a clean section in between your teeth
• Don’t force the floss in or out. Be very gentle so as not to cause excessive gum bleeding (gums will likely bleed if you’re not a frequent flosser)

If you have braces, it’s important to ask your dentist about special tools for flossing and cleaning your teeth properly. If you have dexterity issues that make it difficult for you to floss manually with string floss, ask your dentist for the best alternative for your individual needs for cleaning between your teeth.