How Long Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?
A deep teeth cleaning is a necessary procedure for anyone struggling with gum disease, helping to stop its progress and maintain oral health. Deep cleanings become necessary when plaque and tartar build up under the gums to a point where regular cleaning can no longer remove them. Without this intervention, gum disease can spread, leading to damage in the gums, teeth, and bone structure. A deep cleaning aims to address this buildup, slow or stop the disease’s progression, and encourage healing in the affected areas. If you're scheduled for this procedure, it's important to understand what to expect. Keep reading to find out how long the process typically takes.
How Long Does It Take?
Every situation is unique to each person so the amount of time it takes for a deep cleaning can vary. In general, though, a deep cleaning can take between 1 and 2 hours per session. Usually, deep cleanings are performed by quadrant of the mouth and in general each quadrant takes about 45 min to complete.
Are They Done in Multiple Visits or Just One?
Dentists often break deep cleanings into several visits, especially when all four quadrants of the mouth need the cleaning. This is common because it helps make the process more comfortable for both the patient and the dentist. By splitting the cleaning into two sessions, patients only need half of their mouth numbed at a time, rather than the entire mouth. This allows time for the treated areas to heal and for any discomfort to subside before moving on to the next part of the mouth. This way, the treatment becomes more manageable and less overwhelming. It also allows the dentist to focus on one area of the mouth and really work to ensure that the cleaning is effective.
What Factors Might Affect the Time Needed for a Deep Cleaning?
The time needed for a deep cleaning can vary depending on several factors. The primary factors that determine how long the procedure will take are:
- Amount of buildup: If there’s significant plaque or tartar buildup, more time will be needed to remove it thoroughly. Therefore, the extent of the cleaning is the most common factor in determining how long it will take.
- Number of quadrants being cleaned: Similarly, the amount of the mouth that needs the cleaning will determine the length of the procedure. Cleaning one or two quadrants of the mouth typically takes less time than cleaning three or four quadrants.
- Pain tolerance and sensitivity: Each person experiences sensitivity differently. If a patient feels discomfort, the dentist may use numbing agents or take extra precautions to ensure comfort, which can add time to the procedure.
Overall, the more complex the cleaning, the longer the appointment is likely to take.
The Bottom Line
If you are scheduled for a deep cleaning and curious about how long the procedure will take, speak with your dentist. They will be able to give you a more accurate assessment of the time it will take and let you know what factors might influence the length of time.