How Long Does a Teeth Cleaning Take?
Fitting a dental appointment into your busy week can feel like a challenge. It can be helpful to know how much time to block off, especially for something that can seem as complicated as your teeth. When it comes to a dental visit, the team at Vitality Oral Health understands you want an efficient experience that gets you back to your day.
For the most part, you can expect a routine teeth cleaning to take 30–60 minutes, though the exact time depends on your unique needs.
Your Time Commitment for a Dental Cleaning
Regular professional dental visits are a key part of maintaining good oral health for life. Taking this small amount of time can help you avoid more complex and time-consuming dental work down the road.
What Happens During a Standard Teeth Cleaning
A cleaning is a straightforward process focused on removing buildup that you cannot tackle at home. For those interested in a detailed breakdown, you can learn more about the typical teeth cleaning process, but for many patients, here is what you can expect:
- A look at your teeth and gums: The appointment starts with a quick check of your mouth to see its current condition before the cleaning begins.
- Gentle plaque and tartar removal: Using specific tools, the hygienist carefully removes plaque and hardened tartar from around your gum line and between your teeth.
- Polish for a smooth finish: The hygienist may use a gritty paste and a polishing tool to gently scrub away surface stains.
- Floss and rinse: A final floss helps clear out any remaining debris, followed by a rinse to leave your mouth feeling fresh.
- Final check: The dentist then examines your teeth, gums, and mouth to look for any potential issues and answer any questions you may have.
Factors That Can Affect Your Appointment Length
Not every cleaning takes the same amount of time. There are factors that can influence how long your appointment lasts, making it a bit shorter or longer than average.
How Much Buildup You Have
If it has been a while since your last visit, you might have more plaque and tartar buildup. This film of bacteria can require a bit more time for the hygienist to remove thoroughly and gently, which can extend your appointment time.
Your Specific Oral Health Needs
Some people require a deeper cleaning (sometimes called scaling and root planing) to address their gum health. This procedure is more involved and may take 1–2 hours or even require more than 1 visit to complete.
The Last Time You Saw a Dentist
Regular 6-month visits often mean quicker and easier cleanings. With less buildup to manage, your appointment can be more efficient, helping you get on with your day sooner.
Your Comfort & Questions Answered
Your visit should be a positive experience. It is normal to have questions about the process, especially regarding comfort and results.
Address Comfort & Sensitivity
A teeth cleaning should be a comfortable experience. If you have sensitive teeth, let the hygienist know at the start of your appointment. They can use different techniques and tools to help you feel more at ease.
Understand Whitening Effects
The polishing step of a cleaning can remove surface stains from things like coffee, tea, or wine. This can make your teeth appear brighter. However, it does not change the natural, underlying colour of your teeth. For more significant changes, you may want to learn about professional teeth whitening methods.
After Your Appointment
Once your cleaning is done, you can usually get right back to your routine with just a couple of simple considerations.
Eat & Drink After Your Cleaning
You can usually eat and drink after your cleaning, but if you received a fluoride treatment, you may be asked to wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking. This gives the treatment time to fully absorb and provide its protective benefits.
Keep Your Smile Healthy at Home
A simple way to maintain your oral health between visits is to follow the 2-2-2 rule. Brush your teeth 2 times a day for 2 minutes each time, and see your dentist 2 times a year. Following proper brushing and flossing techniques is a great way to help keep your smile healthy.
Schedule Your Next Visit with a Dentist
Regular dental cleanings are a key part of your overall health routine, helping to prevent future problems and keep your smile feeling fresh. The team at Vitality Oral Health provides compassionate care focused on your health and comfort. To make your next visit quick, simple, and effective, you can schedule an appointment with our team in Calgary, Alberta.