When it comes to maintaining good oral health, regular dental cleanings every 6 months, alongside regular brushing and flossing, are crucial for a healthy mouth. Dental cleanings involve the removal of tartar, plaque, bacteria, and other debris from teeth and gums to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and the need for serious procedures in the future.

The cost of dental cleaning in Ontario can vary, but on average, a regular dental cleaning in Ontario costs between $150 and $250. The cost of a dental cleaning in Ontario depends on many factors, including the state of your at-home oral hygiene routine, whether you need X-rays or imaging, or whether you’re getting a deep cleaning. 

If you’re concerned about cost, talk to your dentist about fees or check with your insurance company to confirm whether they cover a portion of your cleaning appointment.

The Average Cost of Dental Cleaning in Ontario

The cost of dental cleaning in Ontario can vary, but on average, a regular dental cleaning in Ontario costs between $150 and $250. Even if you have no dental concerns, a cleaning every 6 months can help prevent future problems requiring more time-consuming procedures later.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Dental Cleaning 

Several factors affect the cost of dental cleaning in Ontario. One of the primary factors is the type of dental cleaning you need. The most common types of dental cleanings include:

• Regular cleanings: for those with healthy teeth and gums
• Deep cleanings: for those who have been diagnosed with periodontal disease where scaling and root planing are done beneath the gum line
• Debridement: to remove extensive plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and under your gums
• Periodontal maintenance: for those with periodontal disease to help prevent tooth loss

The time it takes to complete your cleaning is another factor that can influence the cost of your cleaning. To minimize the time it takes to complete your appointment, brushing twice a day and flossing daily at home can help.

What Happens During Your Dental Cleaning

Dental cleanings are unique to your oral health needs—some visits may be longer or shorter depending on how well you care for your teeth at home. However, some basic steps are performed in most dental cleanings.

Examination

Your dental hygienist will examine your mouth and evaluate the state of your teeth and gums. They can also identify any signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues visible to the naked eye.

If you’re due for your X-rays, or your dental team suspects you have hidden cavities, you may get imaging done to get a more comprehensive view of your mouth.

Tartar Removal

During this phase, your hygienist will use a scaler to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. This is important because tartar (hardened plaque) is difficult to remove during brushing and flossing at home, and can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. This step can vary in time, depending on your dental hygiene practices.

Teeth Polishing

After removing the tartar from your teeth, your hygienist will proceed to polish your teeth. Using an abrasive paste and an electric tool, they will strive to remove surface stains that brushing alone cannot remove, helping to make your teeth brighter, cleaner, and smoother.

Flossing

While you should be flossing at home daily, your hygienist will finish off your cleaning with flossing to help remove any remaining debris and plaque buildup that may be present between your teeth. A professional flossing can help your hygienist identify any areas you may be neglecting. This is important in preventing potential cavities and gum disease.

Fluoride Treatment

In the final phase of the cleaning, a fluoride treatment is applied to your teeth to help protect and strengthen your tooth enamel. Fluoride helps: 

• Fight off cavities
• Reduce acids in the mouth
• Remineralize enamel

Importance of Regular Dental Cleaning

Regular dental cleaning is essential to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Routine dental cleaning can prevent the buildup of tartar and plaque, which can lead to periodontal disease or other dental problems and can detect early signs of dental problems and prevent them from worsening. If you have dental insurance, dental cleaning is typically included in your dental benefits. If you have questions about your oral health or are due for a cleaning, the friendly team at West Metro Dental is here for you. Schedule your next appointment online with West Metro Dental.