Cleaning at the dentist is usually a pretty quick and easy procedure. However, there are a few things that can impact how long it takes.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the factors that can influence the length of a dental cleaning. From the type of cleaning to the number of teeth being cleaned, read on to learn more about what can impact your dental cleaning time.
What Is Cleaning At The Dentist?
Cleaning at the dentist is a procedure in which the dentist or dental hygienist removes tartar, plaque, and stains from your teeth. Cleaning is also called prophylaxis or teeth cleaning. During a cleaning, your teeth will be scraped and polished.
How often should you get a cleaning at the dentist?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that patients visit the dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and checkup. However, some patients may need to visit more or less often depending on their individual oral health needs.
How Long Does A Cleaning Take?
A typical tooth cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist takes about 30 to 45 minutes. However, the length of your appointment will depend on a few factors, including:
- The severity of your dental condition– If you have severe plaque and tartar build-up, your cleaning may take longer than someone with less buildup.
- The size of your mouth– If you have a large mouth, it may take longer to clean all of your teeth.
- The number of teeth you have– The more teeth you have, the longer it will take to clean them all.
During a teeth cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will also floss and polish your teeth.
What Happens During A Cleaning At The Dentist?
The cleaning process at the dentist usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes. However, this time can vary depending on the severity of the build-up and if you have any other dental treatments scheduled at the same time.
During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will first remove any visible plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth, while tartar is a hardened plaque that has been on your teeth for a while.
Next, your hygienist will use special tools to clean between your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar that’s hidden from view. This process is called scaling and root planning, and it may take a few extra minutes if you have a lot of build-ups.
Once your teeth are plaque- and tartar-free, they will be polished with a gritty toothpaste to leave them feeling smooth. Finally, fluoride will be applied to help protect your teeth from cavities.
What Are The Benefits?
There are many benefits of getting a cleaning at the dentist. Some of the benefits include:
Removal of plaque and tartar
Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. Tartar is plaque that has hardened your teeth. Plaque and tartar can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. A professional cleaning will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
Prevention of gum disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums. It can cause bleeding gums, receding gums, and tooth loss. A professional cleaning can help prevent gum disease by removing the plaque and tartar that cause it.
Fresher breath
Plaque and tartar can cause bad breath. A professional cleaning can help freshen your breath by removing these substances from your teeth.
Whiter teeth
Professional cleanings can help remove stains from your teeth, making them appear brighter and whiter.
Healthier gums
Professional cleanings can help your gums become healthier by removing plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease.
Overall oral health
Professional cleanings can help improve your overall oral health by removing plaque and tartar, preventing gum disease, and freshening your breath.
Conclusion
The average cleaning at the dentist takes about an hour. However, the length of time can vary depending on how much buildup there is on your teeth and how cooperative you are during the cleaning. If you have a lot of tartar or plaque, it may take longer to remove all of it. Also, if you have sensitive teeth, your dentist may take a shorter amount of time to avoid causing you discomfort.