What to Expect at Your Dental Cleaning Appointment
Every patient is encouraged to visit their dentist at least every 6 months for a thorough cleaning, especially since plaque and tartar buildup cannot be fully removed by brushing or flossing at home. If it’s been a while since your last visit, you may be curious about what actually happens during a dental appointment. Aside from a few stained teeth or bad breath, the process is simple and generally painless. In this article, we will break down each step of the dental cleaning process at your next appointment.
What is Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning appointment is a professional procedure performed by a dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains that brushing and flossing cannot remove. It is a huge part of oral care that can help prevent cavities, gum disease and bad breath. During cleaning, a dental hygienist uses tools designed for oral care to gently scrape away buildup and polish the teeth, helping patients maintain good oral health.
What are the steps involved in a cleaning?
Many steps go into keeping your smile bright and healthy, from the initial exam to polishing and treatment. Here’s what you can expect from your appointment:
Physical Exam
Before the actual cleaning, your dental hygienist will start with an exam of your mouth. This is important in ensuring the hygienist will take the proper procedures for your specific dental cleaning needs, and allows us to maintain a safe and effective environment for our patients. Your hygienist will use a small mirror to carefully inspect your mouth for any abnormalities like decay or gum disease and determine the overall health of your mouth.
Scaling
With a small mirror, the hygienist will use a scaler to guide them through your mouth. The scaler is an instrument that will help get rid of plaque or tartar along your gums and in between your teeth. In some cases, they will use an ultrasonic scaler. This tool uses vibrations and jets of water to break up and remove hardened plaque or any stain. Don’t be scared if you hear scraping! This process should not hurt.
Polishing
Once your teeth are free of any plaque and tartar, the hygienists will brush them with a high-powered electric brush and a special gritty toothpaste. This special toothpaste allows the hygienist to clear away any stains that remain, biofilm, or other debris.
Flossing
You may think that this step is unnecessary or redundant since you floss at home, but no one beats the experts. Your hygienist will be able to access any spots you may miss, like between molars or behind back teeth. They will also be able to identify any spots where you may bleed from at the gums, and see if any steps need to be taken further.
Fluoride treatment
The last step of the cleaning process is a fluoride treatment. This part of the process will allow us to strengthen your enamel and provide protection against cavities.
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?
If you’re wondering how long a dental cleaning takes, most appointments will last between 30-60 minutes. The duration depends on factors like how long it’s been since your last cleaning, if you need X-rays, or if there’s buildup that requires extra attention. Your first appointment might take a bit longer so your dentist can review your oral health and treatment history.
How long after a Dental Cleaning can I eat?
You can usually eat right after your dental cleaning, unless you’ve received a fluoride treatment. If fluoride was applied, it’s best to wait around 30 minutes before eating or drinking to let it absorb into your enamel.
How Much is a Dental Cleaning Without Insurance?
Depending on the clinic, a dental cleaning can cost up to $300 for this service. However, depending on your insurance coverage, a dental cleaning can be fully or partially covered. It’s important to note that for uninsured patients, the Government of Canada offers the Dental Care plan to make dental care more accessible and affordable for Canadians.
Recommended Dental Cleaning Frequency
Your dental cleaning frequency depends on your oral health, but we always recommend every 6 months for a simple deep clean. However, if you have gum disease, braces, or teeth that are prone to buildup, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
Is Pain After Dental Cleaning Normal?
A bit of pain after dental cleaning is normal, especially if it’s been a while since your last visit or if you’ve had a deep cleaning. You may feel mild sensitivity, tenderness in your gums, or soreness for a day or two. Rinsing with warm salt water and using a soft-bristle toothbrush can help ease discomfort. If pain lasts longer than a few days, contact your dentist for advice
How 200th Street Dental Can Help
A dental cleaning appointment is one of the easiest ways to keep your smile healthy, and having the right team makes all the difference. At 200th Street Dental in Langley, we pride ourselves on creating a calm, family-friendly environment where parents, kids, and young adults feel comfortable and supported.
Our hygienists walk you through every step of your cleaning and make sure your visit is personalized to your oral health needs. Whether it’s been six months or a few years since your last cleaning, we’re here to help with gentle care that makes the experience smooth and stress-free.
