Check up and cleaning

Gentle, Thorough Check-Ups and Professional Cleanings for a Healthier Smile

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From $80 to $130

Depends on oral hygiene

Prices are indicative and based on normal case complexity. A consultation is required for a definitive quote.

Dental Check-up and Cleaning

It is important to come for regular check-up and cleaning appointments with your dentist. Even if you brush and floss regularly and with the proper technique, bacteria and plaque can still lurk in places you cannot see with your naked eye. We recommend a visit every 6 months.

Benefits of Dental Check-up and Cleaning

Scaling

Scaling gets rid of plaque, tartar and bacterial toxins on the teeth. This helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy, preventing gum disease and bad breath. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, you may have an early stage of gum disease and may be required to do a more intensive gum treatment called root planing.

Polishing

Polishing is usually performed after scaling to eliminate stains caused by coffee, tea or red wine. Normally, your dentist will use a soft rubber cup together with a mildly gritty paste to polish your teeth. Sometimes, a “prophyjet” may be used. This instrument will blast a spray of powder on your teeth to remove more stubborn stains. Polishing will leave your pearly-whites smooth and clean.

Fluoride Therapy

Fluoride is an important mineral that helps keep tooth decay at bay. We recommend that you have fluoride treatment done every 6 months, together with your routine scaling and polishing, for your teeth and gums to be in the best health.

The enamel layer of our teeth will gradually be eroded by the acidic food and drinks that we consume or the acids that are produced by bacteria in the mouth. Fluoride treatments done in a dental clinic can help to strengthen our tooth enamel, through the process of “remineralization”. This helps prevent and even reverse tooth decay. The fluoride, which may take the form of a gel, cream or varnish, will be applied to your teeth and left there to be absorbed.

Frequently asked questions

Can scaling and polishing treat gum disease?

Scaling and polishing are effective in preventing and managing early stages of gum disease (gingivitis). Advanced cases of gum disease may require additional periodontal treatments.

What should I do to prepare for a dental check-up and cleaning?

Before your appointment, make sure to brush and floss your teeth properly. It is also helpful to provide your dentist with any updates about your medical history and current medications.

Is scaling and polishing necessary if I brush and floss regularly?

Even with diligent oral hygiene practices, it is still necessary to have professional scaling and polishing. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent plaque buildup, but they cannot remove tartar that has already formed. Professional cleaning is crucial for thorough removal of tartar and maintaining optimal oral health.

Can scaling and polishing whiten my teeth?

Scaling and polishing can help remove surface stains and discoloration caused by plaque and tartar buildup. However, it is not a tooth whitening procedure. If you desire a significant improvement in tooth colour, your dentist may recommend additional whitening treatments.

How long does scaling and polishing take?

The duration varies based on factors like plaque buildup and individual oral health. Typically lasting 30 minutes to an hour, the procedure involves using specialised tools to remove plaque and tartar, followed by tooth polishing. Regular sessions every six months are crucial for preventive dental care, with frequency adjusted as per individual needs and dentist recommendations.

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Does scaling and polishing hurt?

Scaling and polishing are usually painless procedures. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity during the process, particularly if you have sensitive teeth or gum disease. Your dentist can take steps to minimize any discomfort, such as using a local anaesthetic or desensitizing agents.

How long does a dental check-up and cleaning take?

The duration of a dental check-up and cleaning can vary depending on individual needs and the condition of your teeth and gums. On average, it takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete the process.

How can I reduce staining caused by some food and drinks?

Certain drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and foods like curry, cherries and blueberries are prone to causing stains on your teeth. To avoid stains, you can: 1. Use a straw to drink 2. Avoid constant eating or sipping beverages throughout the day 3. Brush your teeth after meals

What is the price for fluoride therapy and are there CHAS subsidies?

The price of Fluoride Therapy is $30 and is added to the cost of scaling and polishing. CHAS subsidies are available for up to 2 topical fluoride treatments per calendar year.

My teeth seem to be a little more sensitive after my scaling and polishing. Is this normal?

You may experience some slight sensitivity in your tooth after the treatment, especially if you have existing tooth sensitivity or gum recession. If you have gum disease, the roots of your teeth are no longer protected by your gums and become covered by plaque and tartar. After removing plaque and tartar, the roots become more exposed and will feel more sensitive. Some things that may help reduce sensitivity are using a sensitivity toothpaste or having your dentist apply a fluoride varnish after the cleaning. You should also avoid consuming acidic foods and drinks (eg coffee, tea, citrus fruits) or using whitening products immediately before and after your scaling and polishing appointment.

My gums are bleeding after scaling and polishing. Is this normal?

It is normal to experience slight bleeding during/after your scaling and polishing. The bleeding will usually stop after a while.

Why are regular dental check-ups and cleanings important?

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are important for maintaining oral health. They allow dentists to detect and address any dental issues early on, prevent the progression of oral diseases, and keep teeth and gums clean and healthy.

What is scaling and polishing?

Scaling and polishing is a dental procedure that involves removing plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. It helps to maintain oral hygiene, prevent gum disease, and promote overall dental health.

Can I eat after undergoing fluoride therapy?

For maximum benefit, you should not rinse, eat or drink for 30 minutes following the treatment.

What is the price for a dental consultation and are there CHAS subsidies available?

Our consultation charges are: By general dentist: Short (<10 min) - $20 to $40* and Long (> 10 min) - $50 to $80. By specialist: Short (<10 min) - $50 to $80 and Long (> 10 min) - $90 to $180. A short consultation with a general dentist will be waived if your last treatment was less than 12 months ago and a new treatment was performed at this visit. CHAS subsidies are available for a full oral examination. Limits are up to 2 consultations per calendar year, with a 6-month interval.

How much does scaling and polishing cost and are there CHAS subsidies?

The prices for scaling and polishing are: Simple (good to fair oral hygiene) - $70 to $100 and Complex (poor oral hygiene) - $110 to $130. Topical fluoride is an optional add-on for $30. These prices are before GST and consultation fees. CHAS subsidies for scaling, polishing, and fluoride are available, with limits of up to 2 times per calendar year.

Are there any side effects of scaling and polishing?

Scaling and polishing are generally safe procedures with minimal side effects. Some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity, gum tenderness, or minor bleeding during the process. These effects typically subside shortly after the procedure.

Can scaling and polishing cure gum disease?

Scaling and polishing are essential components of gum disease treatment. While they cannot cure advanced gum disease, they are effective in removing plaque and tartar buildup, which helps control and manage the condition. Advanced cases of gum disease may require additional treatment modalities.

What happens during a dental check-up?

During a dental check-up, the dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, or other dental problems. X-rays may be taken to detect any underlying issues not visible to the naked eye.

What are the benefits of fluoride treatment during a cleaning?

Fluoride treatment during a cleaning helps strengthen the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It can also help reverse early stages of tooth decay, protect sensitive teeth, and reduce the risk of cavities.

Can scaling and polishing remove teeth stains?

Scaling can remove some surface stains, but polishing is more effective for stain removal. Polishing helps smooth tooth surfaces and enhances the overall appearance of the teeth.

Are there any other treatments that should be done together with routine scaling and polishing?

It is recommended that you undergo fluoride treatment and take an x-ray together with your routine scaling and polishing. Generally, fluoride treatment and x-rays should be done every 6 months and 1 to 2 years respectively. If decay is identified during these check-ups, your dentist may suggest doing a filling in the same appointment if time permits.

Can scaling and polishing damage the enamel?

When performed by a trained dental professional, scaling and polishing should not damage the enamel. The procedure is designed to remove harmful deposits without causing harm to the tooth structure. However, excessive or improper scaling can potentially damage the enamel, which is why it's important to have it done by a qualified dentist or hygienist.

Can I eat and drink after scaling and polishing?

You can eat after scaling and polishing. If a fluoride gel is applied, wait 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or rinsing your mouth.

What dental treatments are available for children under 12?

The treatments available for children under 12 years old are scaling and polishing/check-ups, fillings, extractions, root canals, and braces.

Can scaling and polishing be done for children?

Yes, scaling and polishing are safe for children and are often part of routine dental care to maintain good oral health from an early age.

Can I eat and drink immediately after scaling and polishing?

You can eat and drink normally after scaling and polishing. However, it's advisable to wait for a short period to allow any sensitivity or numbness to subside. Your dentist may provide specific instructions based on your individual needs.

How often should I schedule a dental check-up and cleaning?

It is generally recommended to have a dental check-up and cleaning every six months. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits based on your individual oral health needs.

How is root planing different from regular dental cleanings?

While regular cleanings focus on the surfaces of the teeth above the gumline, root planing targets the tooth roots below the gumline. It is a more extensive cleaning procedure designed to address early stages of gum disease.

What is the price for root planing (deep cleaning)?

The price for Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) ranges from $200 to $350 (general dentist) and $400 to $600 (specialist) per quadrant. This treatment involves an injection and may require 2 to 4 sessions, depending on complexity. Prices are before GST and consultation fees. A consultation is recommended for a professional assessment.

How often should I visit my orthodontist for retainer check-ups?

Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions regarding follow-up appointments for retainer check-ups. Typically, these visits are scheduled every few months initially, and then the frequency may decrease over time as long as the retainer is functioning properly.

What is deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)?

Deep cleaning involves scaling and root planing. Scaling scrapes off plaque and calculus from the teeth's surfaces, and root planing cleans the root surface. More than one appointment may be required. Your gums may feel sore and sensitive afterward, which can be alleviated with products for sensitive teeth.

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