Regular dental cleanings are a cornerstone of maintaining good oral health and preventing serious dental issues. Understanding what happens during these cleanings and how long they take can help patients better prepare for their appointments and maintain their oral hygiene routine.
Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or need a more intensive deep cleaning procedure, knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety about dental visits. Let’s explore the different types of dental cleanings, their typical durations, and what each procedure entails.
Understanding Dental Cleanings
A dental cleaning is a professional procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth. During this process, special instruments are used to clean both above and below the gum line, helping to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. The procedure also includes polishing the teeth to remove surface stains and create a smooth finish that makes it harder for plaque to accumulate.
5 Signs You Need a Dental Cleaning
- Visible plaque or tartar buildup – Yellow or brown deposits on teeth, especially near the gum line, indicate it’s time for a professional cleaning.
- Bleeding or swollen gums – If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, this could signal gingivitis, which requires professional attention.
- Persistent bad breath – Chronic bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing and flossing may indicate bacterial buildup requiring professional cleaning.
- Discolored teeth – Staining from coffee, tea, or tobacco use that regular brushing can’t remove needs professional cleaning.
- It’s been over 6 months since your last cleaning – Even without noticeable issues, regular cleanings every six months are essential for maintaining oral health.
2 Types of Dental Cleanings
What is Routine Prophylaxis?
Routine prophylaxis, commonly known as a regular dental cleaning, is a preventive procedure designed to maintain oral health in patients with generally healthy teeth and gums. This standard cleaning removes plaque, calculus (tartar), and surface stains that have accumulated since the last cleaning. It’s recommended for patients who maintain good oral hygiene and show no signs of periodontal disease.
What Happens During a Routine Prophylaxis
- Physical Examination – The dental hygienist examines your mouth using a small mirror to check for signs of oral health issues and determine if any areas need special attention.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal – Using specialized tools called scalers, the hygienist carefully removes plaque and tartar buildup from both above and below the gum line.
- Professional Brushing – The teeth are cleaned using a high-powered electric brush and special gritty toothpaste to remove any remaining deposits and polish the teeth.
- Expert Flossing – Professional flossing removes any leftover plaque or toothpaste from between teeth.
- Fluoride Treatment – A fluoride treatment may be applied to help protect teeth against decay until the next cleaning.
How Long Does a Routine Prophylaxis Take?
A routine prophylaxis typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes for patients who maintain regular dental visits and good oral hygiene. However, if it’s been a while since your last cleaning or there’s significant buildup, the procedure might take up to an hour to ensure thorough cleaning and optimal results.
What is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure recommended for patients with signs of periodontal disease or significant tartar buildup. This therapeutic procedure goes beyond routine cleaning by addressing bacteria and calculus buildup below the gum line and along the tooth roots, helping to prevent further progression of gum disease.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning
- Comprehensive Examination – The dentist performs a thorough examination, including measuring pocket depths around teeth to assess the extent of periodontal disease.
- Scaling Process – Using specialized instruments, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line, reaching all the way to the bottom of the periodontal pockets.
- Root Planing – The tooth roots are carefully smoothed to remove infected tooth structure and biofilm, helping gum tissue heal and reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotic Application – In some cases, local antibiotics may be applied to help fight infection and promote healing.
- Post-Procedure Care Instructions – Detailed instructions are provided for at-home care to ensure proper healing and prevent reinfection.
How Long Does a Deep Cleaning Take?
A deep cleaning typically requires 1-2 hours per quadrant of the mouth, with most patients needing multiple appointments to complete the full procedure. The entire process usually takes 2-4 visits, spaced 1-2 weeks apart, allowing time for healing between sessions and ensuring patient comfort throughout the treatment.
4 Factors that Affect the Duration of Your Dental Cleaning
Oral Hygiene Habits
The quality of a patient’s daily oral hygiene routine significantly impacts the length of their dental cleaning. Patients who brush twice daily and floss regularly typically have less plaque and tartar buildup, resulting in shorter cleaning times. Conversely, poor oral hygiene leads to more extensive buildup, requiring additional time for thorough removal.
Time Between Cleanings
The interval between dental cleanings directly affects the procedure duration. Regular six-month cleaning appointments typically require less time as there’s minimal buildup to remove. When patients skip appointments or wait longer between cleanings, more plaque and tartar accumulate, necessitating a longer cleaning session.
Existing Dental Work
The presence of dental work such as bridges, crowns, or implants can extend cleaning time. These restorations require special attention and careful cleaning around their margins to prevent damage and ensure proper maintenance. The hygienist must use specific techniques and tools to clean these areas effectively.
Gum Health
The condition of a patient’s gums plays a crucial role in cleaning duration. Healthy gums allow for faster cleaning, while inflamed or bleeding gums require gentler handling and more frequent breaks. Patients with gingivitis or periodontal disease often need extended cleaning times to address their specific needs.
How to Take Care of Your Oral Health at Home
- Brush Twice Daily – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush for at least two minutes, focusing on all tooth surfaces and the gum line.
- Floss Daily – Thread floss between each tooth and curve it around the base in a C-shape to remove plaque and food particles below the gum line.
- Use Mouthwash – Rinse with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash to help kill bacteria and strengthen tooth enamel.
- Replace Your Toothbrush – Switch to a new toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every 3-4 months or sooner if bristles become frayed.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet – Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and incorporate tooth-friendly foods rich in calcium and vitamins.
4 Benefits of a Professional Cleaning
Prevention of Tooth Decay
Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can lead to cavities and tooth decay. Professional cleaning tools and techniques reach areas that home care might miss, providing a deeper level of protection against decay-causing bacteria.
Early Detection of Dental Issues
During professional cleanings, dentists and hygienists can identify potential problems before they become serious. This early detection of issues like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer can save patients time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
Improved Oral Health
Professional cleanings help maintain healthy gums and prevent periodontal disease. The thorough removal of plaque and tartar reduces inflammation, bleeding, and the risk of more serious dental problems.
Enhanced Smile Aesthetics
Regular dental cleanings help remove surface stains from coffee, tea, and tobacco, resulting in a brighter smile. The polishing step also leaves teeth feeling smooth and looking shiny, boosting confidence in one’s appearance.
Conclusion
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing serious dental issues. The time invested in these professional cleanings, whether routine or deep cleaning procedures, pays off through better oral health, early problem detection, and a more confident smile.
Don’t wait to prioritize your oral health. Schedule your next dental cleaning with Sand Lake Dental today by calling our office or booking online. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for daily oral health tips and updates, and share your experience by leaving a review on Yelp. Your smile deserves the best care possible
