Teeth Cleaning & Dental Exams

Professional teeth cleaning and dental exams at Nations Dental Studio typically cost $75–$125 without insurance, depending on your specific needs. For new patients, we often offer introductory packages that bundle cleaning, exam, and X-rays at special rates. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care at 100% with no deductible, making routine visits free for insured patients. We accept FSA and HSA payments and offer financing options through Sunbit for additional treatments. We'll provide a detailed cost breakdown and verify your insurance benefits during your appointment.

The American Dental Association recommends professional cleanings and exams every six months for most people. This schedule helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. However, patients with certain risk factors—including smoking, diabetes, a history of gum disease, or immunosuppression—may benefit from more frequent visits, such as every three to four months. During your exam, we'll recommend a schedule tailored to your individual needs and risk factors.

Yes, dental insurance typically covers preventive care including teeth cleanings and exams at 100% with no copay or deductible. This is true for most traditional dental plans because preventive care saves insurance companies money in the long run by preventing more expensive treatments. Coverage usually includes two cleanings and exams per year. We'll verify your specific coverage before your visit and let you know if you have any out-of-pocket costs. Patients without insurance receive transparent pricing up front.

Professional teeth cleaning involves four main steps. First, scaling removes plaque and tartar from your teeth using an ultrasonic scaler or hand instruments. Second, polishing uses a gritty paste and rotating brush to smooth tooth surfaces and remove surface stains. Third, fluoride treatment strengthens your enamel to prevent cavities. Finally, a comprehensive exam by the dentist checks for cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. The entire appointment typically takes 45–60 minutes.

A regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gum line during a routine visit. Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a more intensive treatment for patients with gum disease. It removes tartar and plaque both above and below the gum line, and smooths root surfaces to help gums reattach. Deep cleaning is typically performed in two to four visits and requires local anesthesia for comfort. We'll recommend deep cleaning if gum disease is detected during your exam.

Professional teeth cleaning is generally painless, though some patients experience mild sensitivity or discomfort, especially if they have significant tartar buildup or sensitive gums. The ultrasonic scaler produces a gentle vibration and humming sensation rather than pain. If you have sensitive teeth or anxiety about dental visits, let our team know before your appointment. We can apply numbing gel, use gentle techniques, and schedule more frequent breaks to ensure your comfort.

Professional cleanings prevent cavities by removing plaque and tartar your toothbrush can't reach. They prevent gum disease by eliminating bacteria below the gum line. Cleanings remove surface stains, leaving teeth visibly brighter. Regular exams catch problems early—like cavities and oral cancer—when they're easiest and least expensive to treat. Most importantly, routine preventive care saves you money by avoiding costly treatments for decay, gum disease, and advanced problems. Patients who get regular cleanings and exams spend far less on dental care overall.

Yes, you should brush your teeth before your appointment. However, don't worry if you can't brush perfectly—our professional cleaning will remove all plaque and tartar regardless. Brushing before your visit is simply a courtesy to our team and helps you feel fresher during the appointment. If you're unable to brush before your visit, come anyway; we're here to clean your teeth thoroughly.