Edmonton has dental practices that may offer preventative hygiene and cleaning visits, including scaling and polishing, fluoride treatment, and oral cancer screening. If you are due for a checkup or want to set up a regular schedule, hellodent can help you search for participating providers in the area, sort by rating, and request an appointment.
What Is Preventative Hygiene and Cleaning?
Preventative hygiene is regular care that helps keep teeth and gums healthy and may catch issues early. A typical visit includes scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar, a fluoride application if recommended, and a check for cavities and gum changes. Most preventative care can be performed by a general dentist or a registered dental hygienist.
Some patients may need a longer hygiene appointment if there is more tartar buildup or early signs of gum issues. Your dentist will recommend a schedule that fits your needs.
How Much Does Preventative Hygiene and Cleaning Cost in Edmonton?
Edmonton Preventative Hygiene Price Estimates
Costs depend on the time spent, whether X-rays are taken, and any added treatments such as fluoride or sealants. The estimates below are general ranges in Alberta.
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|
| Routine exam (with X-rays if required) | $100 to $250 |
| Scaling and polishing | $150 to $300 per visit |
| Fluoride treatment | $25 to $60 |
| Dental sealants (per tooth) | $40 to $90 |
| Oral cancer screening | $25 to $80 |
According to the hellodent Canadian Dental Health Guide, a routine hygiene visit in Alberta usually falls in the $150 to $350 range. Ask the clinic for a written estimate if extra services are recommended.
What Affects the Cost of Your Visit?
- The time needed for scaling, since heavier buildup can take longer.
- Whether X-rays are taken at the visit.
- Add-on services such as fluoride, sealants, or a customized home-care plan.
- The location of the clinic, with downtown practices often having higher overhead costs such as rent.
Types of Preventative Care Available in Edmonton
Scaling and Polishing
The hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and just below the gumline, then polishes the teeth. The visit may also help freshen breath and improve how the teeth look.
Fluoride Treatment
A topical fluoride is applied to help protect enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. It is often offered to children and to adults at higher cavity risk.
Dental Sealants
A thin protective coating is painted into the grooves of back teeth, usually for children and teens. Sealants may help block plaque from settling into hard-to-clean spots.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your dentist checks the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat for unusual spots or lumps. It is a quick part of a regular exam and can help catch concerns early.
Routine Exam and X-rays
The dentist looks for cavities, cracks, gum changes, and bite issues. X-rays may be taken if required, especially at a first visit or if there is a specific concern. Your dentist may walk you through any findings. If you need further treatment, you could receive a treatment plan with costs before anything starts.
Where to Find Preventative Hygiene Providers in Edmonton
Edmonton practices are spread across the city, with options downtown and in the surrounding neighbourhoods. Most patients can reach a clinic by car, transit, or a short drive from home.
- Central: Downtown, Garneau
- South: Strathcona, Whyte Ave
- North and West: Westmount, The Highlands, Cloverdale
You can use hellodent to search by location or address and sort by rating. For regular hygiene visits, a clinic close to home or work can make it easier to keep appointments.
How to Choose a Preventative Hygiene Provider in Edmonton
Credentials to Look For
Every dentist practising in Alberta must be registered with the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA). You can verify a dentist's credentials through the CDSA. Registered dental hygienists are regulated by the College of Registered Dental Hygienists of Alberta.
General Dentist or Specialist
Most preventative care is provided by general dentists and registered dental hygienists. If signs of advanced gum issues are found, you may be referred to a periodontist who works within that specialty only.
Questions to Ask at Your First Visit
- Do you offer the treatment I think I need for my hygiene goals?
- How often do you suggest I come in for a hygiene visit?
- What is the estimated cost of my visit?
- Do you take X-rays at every visit, or only when needed?
Paying for Preventative Hygiene in Edmonton
Insurance Coverage in Alberta
For most Alberta residents, dental care is typically paid out of pocket or through private insurance. The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) does not generally cover routine dental hygiene visits, though dental work done in a hospital may be covered. Many private plans cover a share of regular hygiene visits, often once or twice a year. Ask your insurer for details on covered services and frequency.
CDCP Coverage
You may be eligible for coverage under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), a dental program funded by the federal government and administered by Sun Life. The CDCP may cover diagnostic exams, X-rays if required, scaling and polishing, fluoride, and sealants for children 17 and under, for eligible Canadians with household income under $90,000 per year and no private dental insurance. Frequency limits may apply. Apply for coverage through the Government of Canada website. Coverage will need to be renewed annually.
Financing and Payment Plans
Some Edmonton clinics may offer in-house payment plans or partner with third-party financing companies. Hygiene visits are usually paid per appointment, but bundles or membership plans may be offered.
*The content provided in this article, including text, graphics, and referenced material, is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your dentist or another qualified oral health professional for questions regarding your dental condition. Never disregard professional dental advice or delay seeking it based on information from this article. If you believe you have a dental emergency, contact your dentist, or seek immediate assistance from an oral healthcare professional. The information in this article has been gathered based on information available online and has not been fact checked by a dental professional.
