Routine Dental Care and Cleaning Costs

Good oral health is fundamental to our overall well-being. Among the various aspects of dental care, routine dental cleaning stands out as a crucial practice. It not only maintains the health and appearance of our teeth but also plays a significant role in preventing dental diseases.

This blog explores the importance of routine dental care, giving you an idea of the costs associated with routine dental cleaning, and answers some frequently asked questions.

Why is routine dental care vital for your oral health?

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene involves more than just regular brushing and flossing at home. An essential component of this is routine dental care, which plays a pivotal role in keeping your teeth and gums in top condition.

Routine dental care primarily consists of regular check-ups and cleanings, usually recommended every six months. During these visits, your dentist does much more than just look for cavities. They conduct a comprehensive assessment of your oral health, which includes:

Looking for cavities and gum disease – Your dentist will check your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or gum problems. Catching these early is key to avoiding bigger issues later

Oral cancer screening – Part of the routine exam often includes looking for any signs of oral cancer. It's important to spot anything unusual early on.

Assess the health of the whole mouth – Your dentist doesn't just focus on your teeth. They'll examine your entire mouth, including your gums, throat, and tongue, to make sure everything is healthy.

The cleaning process

Proactive Measures for a Brighter Smile

Prevention is key in managing tooth discoloration:

Dietary adjustments – Understanding the impact of certain foods and drinks is essential. For instance, reducing green tea or turmeric intake and using a straw can help minimise staining.

Lifestyle changes – The link between lifestyle choices like vaping and tooth staining is increasingly recognised. Reducing or quitting smoking or vaping can significantly decrease the risk of staining.

Benefits of routine dental cleaning

Prevents gum disease

Regular dental cleanings play a crucial role in preventing gum disease, a common condition that can escalate into serious dental issues if ignored. During these cleanings, the dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar build-up around the gum line and between the teeth. This is vital because when plaque accumulates, it can cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, leading to tooth loss and other health complications.

Detect issues early

Routine dental visits are more than just cleaning; they're an opportunity for early detection of oral health problems. This includes identifying cavities, spotting early signs of tooth decay, and checking for damaged or broken fillings. Catching these issues early can prevent the need for more complex and invasive dental treatments in the future. Additionally, regular X-rays can help in identifying problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye, like impacted teeth or jawbone abnormalities.

Brighter smile

One of the immediate benefits of routine dental cleaning is a brighter, more attractive smile. Regular cleanings remove surface stains caused by food, drinks, and tobacco, leaving your teeth looking cleaner and brighter. This not only enhances your appearance but also boosts your self-confidence. Additionally, during these cleanings, you can receive personalised advice on maintaining a whiter smile, such as dietary recommendations and tips on effective brushing techniques.

How much is a routine dental cleaning?

The cost of a routine dental cleaning varies depending on several factors including the location of the dental practice, the specific procedures involved, and the individual's oral health status. Here, at Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, we are striving to make dentistry affordable for everyone. Here are our prices:

Adult Check-up – £45 (including 2 simple X-rays if clinically indicated)

Basic Hygiene – £65

AirFlow Hygiene – £85

Hygiene With Dentist – £120 (hygiene appointment with a dentist)

Conclusion

In conclusion, routine dental care is not just about keeping your teeth clean; it's about maintaining your overall oral health and, by extension, your general health.

Regular check-ups and cleanings are an investment in your well-being, helping to prevent complex and costly dental problems in the future. Remember, a healthy smile is a beautiful smile!

Frequently asked questions - routine dental care