Getting a professional teeth cleaning is an essential part of maintaining a healthy smile. If you’re wondering how long a dental cleaning takes and what to expect during your appointment, you’ve come to the right place! At Dentists of Hinsdale Lake in Willowbrook, IL, we aim to make your visit as comfortable and informative as possible. Here’s what you need to know.
Average Time for a Teeth Cleaning Appointment
On average, a standard dental cleaning appointment lasts between 30 minutes to one hour. The exact time can vary depending on the condition of your teeth, whether additional treatments are needed, and if X-rays are required. While the cleaning process itself is relatively quick, the entire appointment may take longer if there are other factors involved, like a check-up or discussion about any oral health issues.
What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?
When you come in for professional teeth cleaning, there are several steps your dental hygienist and dentist will follow to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and checked for any issues. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Initial Oral Examination
First, your hygienist will begin by checking your teeth and gums. They will use a small mirror to examine the inside of your mouth, looking for any obvious signs of tooth decay or gum disease. If there are any concerns, the hygienist may stop the cleaning and consult with the dentist before continuing.
Dental X-rays (If Needed)
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning or check-up, your dentist might take X-rays to get a closer look at areas that can’t be seen with the naked eye. X-rays help detect cavities, bone loss, or other issues that may not be visible during the examination.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Even with regular brushing and flossing, plaque can build up on your teeth, and when it hardens, it turns into tartar. This can only be removed with specialized dental tools. Your hygienist will use a scaler to gently scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially along the gumline and between your teeth.
Polishing Your Teeth for a Brighter Smile
After removing the plaque and tartar, your hygienist will polish your teeth using a special toothpaste that has a gritty texture. This helps to remove any remaining surface stains, giving your teeth a smooth and shiny finish.
Flossing Between Teeth
Next, the hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any leftover plaque or toothpaste. This also allows them to check for any areas where your gums may bleed, which could indicate potential issues like gum disease.
Rinsing and Removing Residue
After flossing, your hygienist will ask you to rinse your mouth with water to remove any remaining debris. A suction tool is used to clean the water and any excess material from your mouth.
Final Examination by Your Dentist
Once your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, the dentist will come in for a final check-up. They will look for any signs of cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns. If everything looks good, your dentist will answer any questions you may have and discuss the best ways to maintain your oral health.
Deep Cleaning vs. Standard Dental Cleaning: What’s the Difference?
A standard dental cleaning is suitable for patients with generally healthy teeth and gums. However, if you have gum disease or plaque build-up beneath the gum line, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning.
A deep cleaning (also called scaling and root planing) goes below the gumline to remove tartar and plaque that has accumulated deeper in the pockets of your gums. This type of cleaning takes longer, usually one to two hours per session, and may require multiple visits.
Standard cleanings focus on the surfaces of your teeth, while deep cleanings also address the roots and deeper areas of the gums. If you need a deep cleaning, your dentist will explain the process and help you decide the best course of action.
Are You Overdue for a Teeth Cleaning in Willowbrook?
It’s important to visit the dentist regularly for cleanings, typically every six months. If you’ve gone longer than that since your last visit, you may need extra time during your appointment to ensure your teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned. Don’t wait until oral health issues become serious—schedule your teeth cleaning today!At Dentists of Hinsdale Lake in Willowbrook, IL, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If it’s time for your next cleaning or if you have any questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us at (630) 323-5333 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward better oral health!