Dental Cleaning FAQ: What to Expect at Your Six-Month Visit
faq
Answers to the most common questions patients ask before a professional dental cleaning — scaling, polishing, discomfort, and cost.
If it's been a while since your last cleaning, you might have questions before you sit in the chair. Here are the ones we hear most often.
How long does a cleaning take?
Most routine cleanings run 45 to 60 minutes, including a check-up. If there's more tartar built up, it may take a little longer.
Does a cleaning hurt?
For most people it's comfortable — some pressure and vibration from the scaler, plus a bit of water. If your gums are inflamed you may notice tenderness, and we can adjust as we go.
What's the difference between scaling and polishing?
Scaling removes hardened tartar from your teeth and just below the gumline. Polishing comes after and smooths the surface so plaque has a harder time sticking.
Why do my gums bleed during the cleaning?
Bleeding usually means the gums are inflamed from plaque sitting against them. Once the tartar is removed and you keep up your home care, bleeding typically settles within a couple of weeks.
Is a cleaning covered by insurance?
Most BC dental plans cover routine cleanings and exams at some interval. We'll help you understand your coverage before we book.
How often do I really need one?
Every six months suits most adults. Some people benefit from a three or four month schedule — we'll tailor it to you.
For more detail, see our dental cleaning guide or book a visit at Morgan Heights Dental Centre.