Do you get regular teeth cleanings? The recommended schedule for having your teeth cleaned is every 6 months or twice a year, depending on your insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings per year or one cleaning every 6 months, typically at 100%. Yet many people don’t get their teeth cleaned regularly. Why is this? There are a variety of reasons, such as fear of pain or dental anxiety. Does a teeth cleaning hurt? Here’s what you need to know.
What Does a Teeth Cleaning Entail?
A typical teeth cleaning involves the removal of plaque and tartar using dental tools. Your dental hygienist will gently and thoroughly clean your teeth, after which your dentist will check over the results and may provide additional cleaning if necessary. Your teeth will be flossed and also polished using a rotating buffer tool.
Will I Feel Any Pain During a Teeth Cleaning?
In most cases a simple teeth cleaning will not hurt. As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, a teeth cleaning is just a preventive measure to keep them that way. However for patients who may have unhealthy gums, we offer a wide range of localized anesthetics that will help keep you comfortable during your cleaning.
What Can I Do If I Have Dental Anxiety?
Fear of pain at the dentist is often a sign of dental anxiety. Many people develop dental anxiety due to a negative experience at the dentist, often at an early age. If you are nervous or anxious about going to the dentist, and that is preventing you from getting the dental care you need, sedation may be an option for you. Two common types of sedation include:
- Nitrous Oxide. Jokingly called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is administered through a mask over your nose. It provides a calming feeling that can make you less aware and more relaxed. It takes effect quickly and wears off quickly, allowing you to resume your regular daily activities following your appointment.
- Conscious Oral Sedation. An oral sedative can be prescribed by your dentist that you can take prior to your appointment to help you feel more relaxed. You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment in this case, and you should plan to rest at home afterwards.
What is a Deep Teeth Cleaning?
For patients with signs of gum disease, a deep cleaning of the teeth may be necessary. In this case the dental tools will need to reach below your gums to remove plaque and tartar, which may be uncomfortable. Local anesthesia is typically used for deep cleanings to prevent discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Cleanings
Can I still get my teeth cleaned if I don’t have dental insurance?
Even if you don’t have dental insurance, regular dental cleanings are still recommended and are quite affordable. The cost of dental procedures can be paid for with credit, or with HSA and FSA accounts.
Is sedation available for dental cleanings?
Some patients find that sedation can make dental cleanings easier to tolerate. Nitrous oxide is a common choice, as it is very mild and wears off quickly.
Schedule a Cleaning Today
Are you due for a teeth cleaning? If it has been more than 6 months since your last dental cleaning, it is time to schedule a visit. Call 516-921-1133 or contact us today to learn more and make an appointment.