How Long Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?
A deep cleaning is an essential procedure for those dealing with gum disease. Deep cleanings help prevent further damage caused by the gum disease and supports overall oral health. This treatment becomes necessary when plaque and tartar build up below the gumline to a point where routine cleanings can't remove them. If left untreated, this buildup can worsen gum disease and lead to damage in the gums, teeth, and bone. The goal of a deep cleaning is to address this buildup, slow or stop the spread of the disease, and promote healing in the affected areas. If you're about to undergo this procedure, it’s helpful to know what to expect. Keep reading to learn more about how long a deep cleaning typically takes.
How long does a deep teeth cleaning take?
In general, a deep cleaning can take between 1 and 2 hours per session. Deep cleanings are typically done by quadrant of the mouth, and each quadrant tends to take about 45 minutes to complete.
Every deep cleaning is unique to the person, so the amount of time it takes for a deep cleaning can vary depending on several factors. The most significant factor in determining how long a deep teeth cleaning will take is the extent of the buildup causing the need for the cleaning. The more plaque and tartar that has built up, the more time it will take to remove it. Another factor that significantly impacts the time it takes for a deep cleaning is the number of quadrants in the mouth that require the cleaning. In general, the more quadrants of the mouth that need cleaning, the longer it will take to complete. If someone only needs one or two quadrants, their cleaning will take less time than someone who needs three or four cleaned.
The amount of time needed for a deep teeth cleaning is also determined by the pain and sensitivity tolerance of the person. Each person experiences pain and 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.
Why are deep teeth cleanings done in multiple visits?
Deep teeth cleanings are often broken up into multiple visits. This is especially true if all four quadrants of the mouth need the cleaning. By breaking up the visit into two visits, the process is more comfortable for both the patient and the dentist. For the patient, splitting the cleaning into two sessions means only half of the mouth is numb and needing to recover at a time. This allows time for the treated areas to heal and pain to go away before moving on to the next part of the mouth. For the dentist, it allows more focus to be spent on one area of the mouth. This ensures that the dentist can really work to ensure that the cleaning is effective.
What does this mean for me?
If you are one of the millions of people each year that needs a deep teeth cleaning, it is important to understand how long the procedure will take. This will ensure that you know what you can expect on the day of the procedure. Speak with your dentist today, so that you know how many quadrants and what other factors might impact the time it takes to complete your deep teeth cleaning.