If you’ve recently scheduled a dental cleaning, you may be curious to know how long the cleaning process takes and how long your appointment will be. Dental cleanings are one of the most proactive preventative measures you can take to protect your dental health, and not only are they quick and painless, they also help brighten your smile!
How Long Does A Dental Cleaning Take?
A dental cleaning is part of a regular check-up, which also includes a comprehensive exam. Most dental check-ups take about an hour to complete, which means your teeth cleaning in Chicago will usually take about 30 minutes. However, every patient is different, and if there is extensive plaque or tartar buildup, signs of gingivitis, or something is stuck in your teeth, the process could take longer.
Why are Dental Cleanings Important?
Dental cleanings help protect your teeth and gums from tooth decay and disease. By cleaning away plaque, tartar, and stains on teeth, you are eliminating various causes of enamel erosion and gingivitis.
What are Dental Cleanings Like?
Before your professional teeth cleaning, your dentist will perform a comprehensive exam to evaluate your dental health. This includes examining your gum tissue and checking for signs of gingivitis. Your dentist will also look for any signs of oral cancer, and may order dental X-rays to get a better look at the structures of your teeth and jaw, and search for any hidden cavities.
The goal of a dental cleaning is to improve oral hygiene by eliminating the buildup of harmful acids and bacteria. This includes using dental instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar, flossing the teeth, and using a stream of water to irrigate the gums and clean hard to reach areas.
Once your teeth and gums have been thoroughly cleaned, your teeth will be polished to restore shine and remove surface stains. If you have dentures or partial dentures, your dentist may remove them and clean them separately.
How Often Should You Get A Dental Cleaning?
You might be wondering, How often are dental cleanings recommended?
Patients should receive a dental exam and teeth cleaning every six months. This helps prevent cavities, gum disease, plaque buildup, tooth stains, bad breath, and overall poor oral hygiene. Visiting your dentist regularly also allows them to identify minor issues early on, which helps prevent the need for extensive dental procedures.
Other preventative dental treatments that can help protect your smile include dental sealants, fluoride treatments, tooth scaling and root planing (deep dental cleanings), and dental X-rays.
Contact DentArt Chicago for Superior Dental Care
If you haven’t visited the dentist this year, contact DentArt Chicago today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced Chicago Loop dentists are here to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful throughout your life!