How Long Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?
Deep teeth cleaning is a necessary procedure performed on millions of people every year to help slow or stop the spread of gum disease and maintain their oral health. When a person has excessive buildup of plaque and tartar under the gumline that cannot be removed through regular cleanings and oral hygiene, a dentist will recommend a deep teeth cleaning. Left untreated, gum disease can spread and cause a gradual deterioration in the mouth, including the loss of teeth and bone structure. The goal of the procedure is to stop the spread of gum disease and promote the healing process of the mouth. If you’re one of these millions of people, it is important to know what to expect. Read on to learn more about how long a deep cleaning generally takes.
How long does deep teeth cleaning generally take?
Each person’s situation is unique, but in general, a deep cleaning takes between 1 and 2 hours per session. Deep cleanings are usually performed by quadrant of the mouth and each quadrant typically takes about 45 minutes to clean.
Why are deep cleanings divided into multiple visits?
It is very common for dentists to divide a deep cleaning into multiple visits, especially if all four quadrants of the mouth require the cleaning. In these cases, the deep cleaning is often split into two appointments to make the process more comfortable for both the patient and the dentist. Dividing the treatment into smaller sessions prevents patients from having to have their entire mouths numbed at once and instead just have half of their mouth numbed at a time. Dividing the procedure also allows time for the treated areas to heal and the discomfort following the procedure to go away before addressing the rest of the mouth.
What factors might affect the time needed for a deep cleaning?
There are several factors that might impact the length of time needed for a deep cleaning. The length of time of the procedure is most impacted by how much cleaning needs to be done. If there is significant buildup, the dentist or hygienist will need more time to thoroughly remove it. In general, the more buildup the longer the appointment. Similarly, the time will be affected by how much of the mouth needs to be deep cleaned. A deep cleaning in one or two quadrants of the mouth will take less time than one with three or four requiring the cleaning. Each person’s pain tolerance and sensitivity are different and therefore could affect the length of time. If a patient experiences sensitivity, the dentist may take additional steps, such as using a numbing agent, to ensure comfort. This can add time to the appointment as well.
What does this mean for me?
If you need a deep cleaning and want to know more about how long it will take, speak with your dentist today. They will be able to assess your situation and provide estimates. You will also be able to speak with them about your unique circumstances to understand what factors may influence how long it will take to perform the cleaning.