How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?

A routine dental cleaning is a standard process with a few varying steps. The dental hygienist will begin by examining your teeth and mouth for any signs of cavities or inflammation. If you are due for X-rays, they will also start with them before the cleaning process begins. Following the physical exam and X-rays, the dentist will clean, brush, and floss your teeth and may also apply a dental sealant and/or fluoride depending on the dentist’s recommendations.

Generally, most dental cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes depending on your oral health needs at the time and what treatments the dentist recommends.

Dental Cleaning Process

Physical Exam: Teeth cleanings are often done by a dental hygienist. The hygienist will start the cleaning by giving you an oral exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth. They will look for any signs of decay, oral issues, or gum disease. The hygienist will use small dental instruments like a small mirror and a dental explorer tool similar to a small pick. If any major problems are detected, the hygienist will call upon the dentist for a closer examination.

Removal of Plaque and Tartar: While using a small mirror to see the teeth closely, the hygienist will precisely remove any buildup of plaque or tartar between the teeth or around the gumline.

Cleaning and Polishing: After the plaque and tartar are removed, the dental hygienist will begin cleaning and polishing the teeth. They will use a gritty toothpaste and a high-speed polishing tool to buff and clean the teeth. This process will remove any plaque that is left over, as well as remove any surface stains or leftover food particles. Your teeth will feel and look clean and fresh, making it harder for plaque to adhere to the enamel in the future.

Floss & Oral Rinse: The hygienist will then floss between each tooth. This will remove any plaque, food, or toothpaste from between each tooth or along the gumline. After flossing, the hygienist will have you rinse your mouth with water to wash away any debris.

Fluoride Treatment: After removing plaque and tartar, cleaning, and flossing, the dentist might recommend a fluoride treatment. Plaque that forms on teeth can cause erosion, which leads to cavities. Fluoride, a mineral, helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities from forming. A fluoride treatment is very beneficial, as teeth can weaken and become more susceptible to decay and breakage over time.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?

For most people, it is recommended that you visit the dentist once every six months for a cleaning and routine checkup. These routine visits can help prevent plaque from turning into tartar and catch any other problems early on before they worsen.

Some people need to visit the dentist more often than once every six months. Depending on your age, you may have to visit more or less frequently. If you have pre-existing conditions such as frequent cavities or gum disease, your dentist may recommend that you visit more than every six months. If you have a high sugar intake or smoke, you might need to see the hygienist more often to maintain optimal oral health.

Related Article: My Teeth Hurt After Cleaning