How Long Does Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?
Deep teeth cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure designed to remove plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline. This treatment is often recommended when buildup has advanced beyond what a routine cleaning can manage. If your dentist has suggested a deep cleaning, you may be wondering how much time to set aside for the appointment. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, there are common timelines and factors that influence the duration. Read on to learn more.
Typical appointment length
On average, a deep cleaning session takes between one and two hours. Dentists and hygienists typically divide the mouth into four sections, called quadrants. They are the upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. In most cases, each quadrant takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Deep cleanings are often performed one or two quadrants at a time, which means you may need two separate visits to complete the full treatment. This approach helps manage comfort and allows the dental team to focus on each area thoroughly.
Why the procedure is often split into multiple visits
There are several reasons why dentists usually recommend breaking the treatment into two appointments:
- Comfort: Deep cleaning requires local anesthesia to numb the treatment areas. Numbing the entire mouth in one session can make speaking, eating, and drinking difficult afterward.
- Healing time: Splitting the procedure allows one side of the mouth to begin healing before the other side is treated. This helps reduce overall discomfort during recovery.
- Attention to detail: Focusing on fewer quadrants in one visit gives your dental team more time to ensure that all plaque, tartar, and bacteria are removed effectively.
Factors that can affect how long it takes
While one to two hours per session is common, the time needed for a deep cleaning can vary depending on several factors:
- Extent of buildup: Heavy plaque and tartar accumulation can increase the time needed for thorough removal.
- Severity of gum disease: Advanced gum disease may require more careful scaling and root planing to address deep pockets and infection.
- Number of quadrants: If only one or two quadrants need treatment, your appointment will be shorter than if all four require cleaning.
- Sensitivity: Patients with sensitive teeth or gums may need extra numbing or more frequent breaks, which can lengthen the session.
After the procedure
Once the cleaning is complete, you may notice mild gum tenderness, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days. Your dentist will provide aftercare instructions, which may include using a soft-bristled toothbrush, rinsing with warm salt water, and avoiding certain foods until your gums feel normal again.
What does this mean for me?
A deep teeth cleaning generally takes one to two hours per visit, with most patients requiring two appointments to complete the process. The exact time depends on the amount of buildup, the severity of gum disease, and your comfort needs. Talking with your dentist before treatment will give you the most accurate estimate for your specific situation.