Dental Cleaning in Tucson, AZ

Regular professional cleanings are the foundation of good dental health. Even if you brush and floss every day, plaque hardens into tartar in areas your toothbrush cannot reach, especially below the gum line and between teeth. Only a professional cleaning can remove tartar once it forms.

A routine cleaning (prophylaxis) at our Tucson office takes about 45 to 60 minutes. Our hygienist uses ultrasonic and hand instruments to remove tartar from all surfaces of your teeth, then polishes them to remove surface stains. Dr. Torres examines your teeth and gums afterward and takes digital X-rays if it is time for your annual set.

For patients with gum disease (periodontal disease), we offer deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. This is a more thorough cleaning that reaches below the gum line to remove tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces. Deep cleaning is done with local anesthesia and may be split into two visits.

How often you need a cleaning depends on your dental health. Most patients do well with a cleaning every six months. Patients with active gum disease may need cleanings every three to four months until the condition is under control.

A routine cleaning in Tucson costs $100 to $200 without insurance. Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings per year at 100% or with a small copay. Deep cleaning costs more because it requires additional time and anesthesia.