It’s tough to place an exact time on how long a routine teeth cleaning “should” take. A typical cleaning with no complications and requiring no additional treatments is completed in a single visit. In these straightforward cases, the process takes between 30 minutes and about an hour. Of course, there are patient-specific factors, like plaque and tartar buildup, gum disease, and lesions or minor cavities on the surfaces of teeth, that can add to the duration of a routine cleaning.
What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning
For the uninitiated (or out-of-practice) patient, here is a quick look at what exactly you can expect during a routine oral exam and dental cleaning:
- Examination of your head and neck to ensure the health of your lymph nodes and the bones and muscles in your jaw
- X-rays of your entire mouth to provide your dentist with a complete picture of the overall state of your oral health
- A thorough examination of the inside of your mouth to identify any cavities, loose fillings, cracked teeth, plaque buildup, or early signs of gum disease or oral cancer
- Removal by your dentist or dental hygienist of plaque and tartar from the surfaces of and in between your teeth and your gumline
- Application of a dental polish to help prevent future plaque and tartar buildup
Professional Teeth Cleaning and Oral Exams in Raleigh, NC
If you’re looking for an experienced dental practice in Raleigh for effective and efficient dental cleanings and oral exams, contact Dr. William Turner and the skilled and helpful Cameron Village Dentistry team to schedule an appointment!