Patients commonly wonder how long their routine dental cleaning will take. Patients who want to plan their days out can benefit from knowing what to expect during their dental cleaning. Knowing ahead of time how long a routine dental cleaning will take can reduce patients’ dental anxiety, making it a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Let’s dive into what to expect during your dental cleaning, how long it will take, and factors that may impact the length of your visit.
What to Expect During Your Routine Dental Cleaning
During your dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will assess the health of your gums, teeth, and mouth. They will use specialized tools to remove plaque buildup, clean, polish, and floss your teeth. Each step in the process is essential for your oral hygiene. Here is a breakdown of what your dental cleaning could look like:
- Health History Overview
- X-ray treatments
- Dental Exam
- Plaque Removal
- Polishing
- Flossing
- Fluoride Treatment
How Long Does a Typical Dental Cleaning Take?
It is recommended to allot an hour of your time for your routine dental cleaning. If you are a new patient, your appointment may take longer due to different assessments needed to identify where your dental health stands. For children, there is typically not a lot of hardened plaque buildup on their teeth. This can lead to shorter appointments for patients who fit this demographic.
Four Factors that Can Impact the Length of Your Dental Visit
- Gum Disease – Some patients who experience gum sensitivity or gum disease need a more intensive cleaning treatment, resulting in more time spent at the dentist’s office.
- Plaque Buildup – Patients who wait a longer time to visit the dentist could have more plaque buildup. It is recommended that you see your dentist every six months.
- Emergency Patients – Dentists may have an emergency patient visit their office, which could push back the start time of your appointment.
- Dental Anxiety – Patients who experience dental anxiety are approached more slowly, as the dental staff wants to make sure that the patient is comfortable.
Plan Your Next Dental Visit With Confidence
Now that you know how long your next visit will take and what to expect, you can plan your dental visit with ease. Remain confident in your dentist by choosing a provider at Hudec Dental. Our team of dentists can serve you no matter your age. From pediatric to senior dental care, Hudec Dental will help make you feel more comfortable with your smile. Contact us today to schedule.
