How Long Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Take?

It is recommended that patients see their dentist every 6 months for routine dental cleaning. These appointments are relatively quick since there is little time allowed for heavy buildup of plaque and calculus - and less to clean. 

Some patients may require deeper cleaning, and this can take a little longer.

But just how long does a deep teeth cleaning take? What can you expect? Let’s talk about it. 

What is a Deep Teeth Cleaning? 

Plaque is a sticky residue that forms due to a combination of bacteria and food debris, And calculus is plaque in its hardened form. Both attach to the surface of the tooth and, if left untreated, can wreak havoc on your oral health. 

As its name suggests, a deep teeth cleaning goes a bit further - and a bit deeper - than regular dental cleanings. Using special tools, dentists and hygienists take time to remove plaque and calculus from the surface area of the teeth as well as along the gum line where buildup frequently occurs. If the situation warrants, the deep cleaning may even go below the gum line. 

How Long Does a Deep Teeth Cleaning Take? 

Regular dental cleanings take about 30 minutes to complete. However, a deep cleaning may last an hour - or two - depending on how much plaque needs to be removed. 

If you have not been visiting the dentist regularly for a cleaning, then you should expect your appointment to take longer than usual. After all, plaque and calculus build up over time and the more time it has had - the more there is to clean. Not to mention that plaque can be tougher to remove the longer it remains on the teeth. 

What to Expect with a Deep Teeth Cleaning? 

A deep teeth cleaning involves two procedures: scaling and root planing. 

Scaling involves the removal of plaque and calculus from the surface of the teeth, the gum line, and underneath the gums where the roots are found. 

Root planing is the second step which involves smoothing out the roots so that the gums can fit against the teeth and reattach properly. This reduces the chance of leaving spaces or pockets for bacteria to collect, leading to future oral health issues. 

How Often are Deep Cleanings Needed? 

A deep cleaning may require more frequent dental visits than routine cleaning, at least until the gums and teeth are back in connection and the mouth has healed. Don’t be surprised if it is recommended that you have these cleanings every 3 months. 

Frequent deep cleanings can halt the progression of gum disease. 

The Need for a Deep Teeth Cleaning

Leaving plaque and calculus to build up can lead to oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. These are both conditions that cannot heal themselves on their own - and could result in serious issues down the road. Regular deep teeth cleaning can reduce the chance of this happening. 

If you have not had a cleaning in a while, eat a high-sugar diet, or have poor oral hygiene habits, you will benefit greatly from a deep teeth cleaning. 

Schedule Your Deep Teeth Cleaning

Take charge of your oral health today. At Cambridge Family Dentistry, we understand that routine teeth cleaning can be your best defense against plaque and calculus - and the issues they cause. That’s why we provide our patients with routine and deep teeth cleanings to maintain a healthy mouth. 

To learn more, contact us today at 617-868-7479. Or, request an appointment online.