Dental cleaning procedures differ although they all have the same purpose: good oral health. Most cleaning procedures can be performed by a certified dental hygienist. However, some complicated procedures that require more knowledge and skill may have to be performed by a dentist.
History
According to Ada.org, Celsus, a Roman, wrote about medical issues, including oral hygiene and toothache cures, in 100 B.C. Ada.org also notes that in 1890 Willoughby Miller, an American dentist in Germany wrote about microbial bases of dental decay in his book "This writing stimulates the world into placing greater emphasis on brushing teeth and flossing regularly. In 1913 the first oral hygiene school was founded by Alfred C. Fones, whpoalso coined the term "dental hygienist", and was later known as the Father of Dental Hygiene. In 1917 Irene Newman received the first dental hygiene license in the state of Connecticut.
Standard and Deep Cleaning
Numerous cleaning procedures exist, although there are a few basic methods that are widely used. According to Worldental.org, a standard cleaning involves removal of soft plaque and hard tartar above and below the gum line. This procedure requires specific instruments, and takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Another cleaning procedure is deep teeth cleaning. Worldental.org estimates this cleaning takes 45 to 60 minutes, due to the higher level of complexity. An initial exam is necessary to evaluate problems, and to plan what the followings treatments will consist of. Deep cleaning is generally done in two to four visits, according to Worldental.org. Deep cleaning involves the use of local anesthetic. Plaque and tarter above and below gum line are removed through a process called scaling. Rough spots on the root are smoothed to remove all bacteria, and to create a clean spot for the gums to reattach to the teeth.
Laser Cleaning
Laser cleaning is only used when the hygienist is unable to clean build-up that is located too deep under the gumline. Dentists are required to perform this procedure due to the use of anesthesia and a laser. Laser cleaning removes deeply embedded tartar, and allows gums to heal in a more effective manor, according to Worldental.org.
Cost
According to Worldental.,the cost of the average teeth cleaning and dental exam is between $50 and $135. This cost depends on the initial fee, how much insurance covers and if other procedures are needed, such as fluoride treatments or deep cleaning. Worldental.org also estimates the cost of deep cleaning from $100 to $400 per quadrant of the mouth.
Benefits
There are several reasons to get regular cleanings. The first is to prevent oral cancer that can be cured if diagnosed in time. The second reason is to prevent gum disease, which can be prevented through good oral health practices. Other reasons include maintaining health, and detecting dental problems early, along with many others.
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