Professional teeth cleanings are a routine part of maintaining oral health, preventing dental issues and supporting overall well-being. They remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot effectively eliminate. These cleanings help keep teeth and gums healthy.
Typical Cleaning Duration
A routine dental cleaning typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. This includes the cleaning itself and an initial examination by the dental hygienist or dentist. For those with consistent home oral hygiene and regular check-ups, the cleaning may be quicker. This timeframe applies to uncomplicated visits without extensive issues.
Factors Affecting Cleaning Time
Cleaning time varies based on several factors. A significant factor is the amount of plaque and tartar buildup. Substantial hardened calculus requires more time for removal. Gum health also plays a role; individuals with gingivitis or advanced gum disease may need a more extensive cleaning, like scaling and root planing, which takes longer and might be split across multiple appointments.
Additional procedures, such as dental X-rays or specialized diagnostic evaluations, extend the appointment. Patient cooperation and comfort also influence duration; some may need breaks due to sensitivity, prolonging the process. If a patient has not had a professional cleaning in a long time, the appointment may be more extensive to address accumulated issues.
What Happens During a Cleaning
A typical professional teeth cleaning involves several steps performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. The process begins with an initial oral examination, where the hygienist uses a small mirror to inspect the teeth and gums for signs of inflammation, decay, or other concerns. This assessment helps identify areas needing particular attention.
Following the examination, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar, a process known as scaling. Specialized instruments, either manual scalers or ultrasonic devices that use vibrations and water, are employed to meticulously scrape away these hardened deposits from tooth surfaces and along the gum line. After scaling, the teeth are polished using a high-powered electric brush and a mildly abrasive, gritty paste to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel.
The cleaning concludes with expert flossing, which thoroughly clears any remaining debris or polishing paste from between the teeth and just beneath the gum line. This step also allows the hygienist to check for any bleeding gums, which can indicate areas of inflammation. Often, a fluoride treatment is applied at the end to help strengthen tooth enamel and provide additional protection against cavities.