A dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining your oral health, but how long does a dental cleaning take? For most routine adult cleanings, you can expect to spend approximately 45 minutes to an hour in the dental chair.
This professional treatment, performed by a skilled dental hygienist, meticulously removes plaque and tartar—those stubborn deposits that even the most diligent at-home brushing and flossing can't fully eradicate.
These accumulations are prime breeding grounds for bacteria, which can lead to issues like cavities and gum disease. Regular cleanings are a proactive step towards a healthier, brighter smile. At Soho Smile, we prioritize your comfort and efficiency, ensuring a thorough yet timely experience that contributes significantly to your overall well-being.
A dental cleaning at Soho Smile® is a professional treatment performed by a hygienist or dentist that goes beyond what you can achieve with daily brushing and flossing at home.
It's especially crucial because not brushing your teeth regularly allows plaque (a soft, sticky film) and tartar (hardened plaque) to build up significantly.
This accumulation can lead to serious issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath, which a professional cleaning effectively removes to protect your oral health.
Clean teeth aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re crucial to preventing more serious issues. Skipping regular cleanings increases your risk for cavities, gum infections, and even tooth loss. Plus, poor oral health can affect your heart, lungs, and overall well-being.
Not all cleanings are created equal.
Most routine cleanings last 30 to 60 minutes. However, that can vary depending on your oral health, the type of cleaning needed, and your comfort level.
If you’re a new patient or haven’t had a cleaning in over a year, the appointment might take longer. But for those who maintain regular six-month checkups, the visit often flies by.
Adults typically spend 45 to 60 minutes in the chair for a standard cleaning. This includes time for a quick check-up, scaling, polishing, and any necessary X-rays. If it's been a while or you have dental work like crowns or bridges, it might take closer to an hour.
Children's cleanings usually take 20 to 30 minutes. Their smaller mouths and lower tartar buildup make the process quicker. Dentists also try to make it a positive, smooth experience to build trust early on.
Several things can influence how long your visit lasts:
When you arrive, you’ll check in and possibly fill out forms. First-time patients may need to provide medical history, dental concerns, or insurance information. This part can take 5 to 10 minutes.
Your dentist or hygienist will perform a quick exam of your gums, teeth, and mouth. If it’s your first time or if there are changes in your dental health, X-rays may be taken. This can add 10–15 minutes, but it's crucial for detecting hidden problems.
Using a dental scaler, your hygienist will gently remove buildup around the gum line and between teeth. This part may take 15–30 minutes, depending on how much there is to clean. You may hear scraping, but it shouldn’t be painful.
Next, your teeth will be polished with a gritty toothpaste to remove stains and make your teeth feel smooth. After that, your hygienist will floss to clear out any debris and check your gum health.
If recommended, a fluoride gel or foam is applied to help protect your teeth from cavities. It only takes a few minutes but strengthens enamel for months.
The more buildup you have, the longer it takes to remove. If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, expect a bit more time.
Sensitive or bleeding gums may require a gentler approach, which can stretch the appointment slightly. If there's inflammation or tenderness, your hygienist will take extra care.
Regular dental visits make future cleanings quicker and easier. If you go every six months, your appointments are usually smoother and faster.
If you’re nervous or have a condition that requires additional care, your visit may take a little longer. That’s okay—it’s important that you feel comfortable throughout.
Some patients require numbing gels or need short breaks during the cleaning. This adds time but ensures a more comfortable experience.
The American Dental Association recommends every 6 months for routine cleanings. This helps remove buildup and catch early signs of dental problems.
Depending on your needs, your dentist might suggest more frequent cleanings—every 3 to 4 months—especially if you have gum disease, smoke, or have certain health conditions.
Deep cleaning is a treatment for gum disease. It goes below the gumline to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the tooth roots. It’s more thorough than a routine cleaning and is often needed to restore gum health.
Your dentist might clean two quadrants per visit or do one at a time. In total, 2 to 4 visits are common for deep cleaning.
Cleanings remove harmful bacteria that cause gum disease and decay. By staying on schedule, you’re taking preventive steps that save time, money, and discomfort later.
Oral health is tied to your overall health. Regular cleanings reduce risks for heart disease, diabetes complications, and even respiratory problems.
During the cleaning, you may feel pressure or hear scraping. Afterward, your teeth will feel smooth and fresh. Slight gum sensitivity is normal but fades quickly.
Right after your cleaning, your mouth will feel minty-fresh and your teeth polished—like starting the day with a clean slate.
When paired with good brushing and flossing habits, the results can last until your next visit. Your teeth stay cleaner, and your gums stay healthier.
Children’s cleanings typically last 20 to 30 minutes. Dentists often keep it short and fun to help kids stay relaxed and cooperative.
If you feel nervous, options like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives can help you relax. These are safe and commonly used.
Yes, sedation may add 10 to 15 minutes for setup and recovery. But it’s worth it if it means a more comfortable visit.
Minor soreness is normal, but if bleeding or pain lasts more than 48 hours, contact your dentist.
If you notice swelling, pus, or fever after your cleaning, seek care promptly—these may indicate infection.
Located in the heart of Soho, NYC, Soho Smile® is where dental health meets artistry. We deliver biologic, personalized dental care services in a modern, caring environment. You can find us at 9206 Spring Street 5th Fl, New York, NY 10012.
We're open Monday and Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Thursday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. We offer advanced cleanings, sedation options, and cosmetic treatments designed with your health and happiness in mind.
Experience the difference today. Book your appointment and take the first step toward your healthiest, brightest smile ever.
To wrap it up, how long does a dental cleaning take? Usually, 30 to 60 minutes—but those minutes are packed with benefits that stretch well beyond your time in the chair. Clean teeth, fresh breath, and peace of mind? That’s time well spent.
Don’t delay your next appointment with Soho Smile®—your future self (and smile) will thank you.
Yes, you can return to work immediately unless you’ve had sedation or a deep cleaning that leaves your mouth feeling tender.
Yes. New patient cleanings often include X-rays and a comprehensive exam, which can add 15–20 minutes.
Not the length directly, but insurance may determine the type of cleaning covered and the frequency allowed.
Yes, cleaning around braces is more detailed and may take 15–20 extra minutes.
If you’ve had fluoride, wait 30 minutes. Otherwise, yes—just avoid overly hot, cold, or sticky foods immediately.
206 Spring Street 5th Fl
New York, NY 10012
Monday 9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday 9:00am - 7:00pm
Wednesday 9:00am - 7:00pm
Thursday 9:00am - 6:00pm
Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sat & Sun Closed