How Long Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?
Deep teeth cleaning is a procedure that is performed at your dentist's office. It is also known as root planing or scaling. Unlike standard scaling, a deep cleaning reaches below the gum line and removes bacteria and deposits from the surfaces of the teeth’s roots. It’s an important oral health procedure, but many patients wonder how long it takes and what to expect during their visit.
Duration depends on the stage of the disease
There is no single answer to the question of how long a deep cleaning lasts, because the time of the procedure depends on several factors. First of all, the stage of periodontal disease is important. The more tartar, inflammation, and deeper periodontal pockets there are, the more time the dentist or hygienist needs to thoroughly clean the tooth surfaces and roots.
The entire process is usually divided into two or four visits, depending on the number of quadrants of the oral cavity being cleaned. The dentist can divide the oral cavity into four parts (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left) and clean two quadrants during one visit. In this case, each visit usually lasts from 45 to 90 minutes.
Consultation and diagnostic visits before the procedure
Before the deep cleaning begins, the dentist conducts a detailed periodontal examination. To do this, they measure the depth of the gum pockets using a special probe, take X-rays, and assess the general condition of the oral cavity. Such a consultation can last from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the diagnostic needs.
Factors influencing the length of the procedure
In addition to the advancement of periodontal disease and the number of visits, the length of the procedure is also influenced by:
- Your general health - patients with tooth hypersensitivity may require a longer time for anesthesia and breaks during the procedure.
- Your level of pain and the need for anesthesia - the procedure is often performed under local anesthesia, which also extends the duration of the visit.
- The experience and technique of the dentist or hygienist, experienced professionals, can work faster without losing precision.
Can the procedure be performed in one sitting?
In some cases, it is possible to perform a deep cleaning of the entire mouth during one long visit, lasting up to 2-3 hours. However, this option is usually only used if the inflammation is moderate, and if you can tolerate longer treatments and anesthesia well.
Recovery time after the procedure
Although the cleaning itself can take several hours divided into visits, the healing process of the gums takes much longer, usually 7 to 14 days. During this time, there may be slight pain, swelling, or sensitivity. The dentist may recommend the use of antiseptic rinses, a soft toothbrush, and avoiding hard foods.
In Conclusion
Deep cleaning of the teeth is a time-consuming and precise procedure that often extends over several visits lasting 45-90 minutes. The final length of treatment depends on the health of the periodontium, diagnostic needs, and your tolerance for dental procedures. While it may seem time-consuming, it is an investment in the long-term health of your teeth and gums, and a good deep cleaning can prevent tooth loss and significantly improve your quality of life. If you are ready to take an important step towards the cleanest and healthiest mouth possible, call us today!