Teeth Cleanings and Hygiene in Lancaster, CA

Did you know that maintaining a healthy mouth helps you live longer? We can’t emphasize enough the importance of regular dental hygiene appointments at AV Dental Wellness Group. Staying on top of your teeth cleaning schedule is vital for maintaining a healthy mouth and avoiding cavities and gum disease. Most families in Lancaster, CA, need a dental cleaning every six months. That’s why your experienced dentist and dental hygienist offer both regular teeth cleanings and deep cleanings tailored to your smile’s specific needs.

Professional Teeth Cleaning for a Radiant Smile

Skipping your next check-up might be tempting, but professional teeth cleanings play a big role in overall health! These cleanings give you a dazzling smile and remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

The Importance of Routine Dental Cleanings in Lancaster, CA

Dental prophylaxis, or “regular cleaning,” involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth above the gumline and along the gums’ edges. This cleaning process helps prevent bacteria buildup that causes gum disease and cavities. Most people require cleanings every six months to maintain optimal oral health.

Regular Cleanings vs. Deep Cleanings

There are two main types of dental cleanings: regular cleanings and deep cleanings.

• Regular dental cleanings target the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth and around the gums. These non-invasive procedures keep teeth clean and healthy. If there is minor buildup or mild gingivitis, our Lancaster hygienist will provide home care tips to address these issues before your next cleaning.
• Deep dental cleanings (periodontal therapy) are more intensive procedures used to manage gum disease. Deep cleanings occur deeper beneath the gum line to clear plaque and tartar from the surfaces of tooth roots where gums have detached from teeth and bone is deteriorating. These cleanings are essential for preventing further gum disease progression and are often recommended for more severe gum issues. Without this deep cleaning, bacterial deposits can worsen gum and bone deterioration, potentially leading to tooth loss and affecting overall health.

What to Expect During a Deep Dental Cleaning

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, can transform your oral health. While regular cleanings handle surface plaque and tartar, they don’t reach below the gumline. Deep cleanings are necessary when plaque and tartar build up under the gums, causing inflammation and gum disease.

During a deep cleaning, special tools are used to clean beneath the gum line, removing bacteria from your teeth’s roots and helping your gums heal and reattach. You might experience minor discomfort during the procedure, but your gums will quickly return to normal. We can also use a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the process.

How You Can Help at Home

By maintaining good brushing and flossing habits at home, you can help reduce your risk of gum disease and your need for more intense dental cleanings. Most preventative dental care occurs at home, so you have the power to make any lasting changes needed to improve your oral health.

Are Dental Cleanings Covered by My Insurance?

When it comes to dental cleanings, most insurance plans will cover the cost of regular cleanings (healthy gums)  twice a year (every six months). Regular cleanings are important in preventing cavities and gum disease, as well as ensuring healthy gums and teeth, so it’s beneficial for both you and your insurance carrier to have these visits included under your benefits package.

In some cases, a deep cleaning may be necessary. Deep cleanings focus on the area between your gums and teeth where gum disease already exists. If you have gum disease, a deep cleaning is necessary to get rid of bacteria and reduce inflammation, and a preventative cleaning will not be appropriate. This involves the hygienist scaling down into the pockets around the teeth and roots, removing tartar and bacteria from the area. Deep cleanings are usually partially covered by most insurance plans, though there may be some out-of-pocket costs. Depending on your policy, you may have a copay or deductible to meet in addition to the patient percentage not covered by your insurance policy.

To find out if your insurance plan covers dental cleanings, AV Dental Wellness Group will contact your insurer to check your policy details. Knowing whether or not your regular dental cleanings are covered by insurance and by how much can help you budget for your visits and stay on top of your oral health.

Ready for Your Next Teeth Cleaning in Lancaster, CA?

When you visit AV Dental Wellness Group, Dr. Sekhon will evaluate your gum health to determine the type of cleaning you need. If it’s been six months since your last check-up, or you suspect you have gum disease, please call our office today to book your next appointment!

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On This Page

• Professional Teeth Cleaning for a Radiant Smile
• The Importance of Routine Dental Cleanings in Lancaster, CA
• Regular Cleanings vs. Deep Cleanings
• What to Expect During a Deep Dental Cleaning
• How You Can Help at Home
• Are Dental Cleanings Covered by My Insurance?

Related Topics

• Preventative Dentistry
• Digital X-rays Exams

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Hear From Our Patients

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Helpful links: WebMD (Dental Care) | ADA (Glossary of Dental Terms)