How Long Does a Cleaning Take at the Dentist?

Is it your first time visiting the dentist with a child? It's okay to feel anxious about your kid's first trip to the dentist for a dental cleaning. Early dental care is a significant step in your kid's dental hygiene journey.

While this period can be anxiety-inducing, it does not have to be. Answering questions like "how long does a cleaning take at the dentist?" can help you keep cool and calm your child's nerves.

When To Visit the Dentist With Your Kid?

If you are new to pediatric dental care or a first-time parent, you may wonder when the right time to take your kid for dental cleaning is.

You can take your kid for this procedure once their teeth develop. It doesn't matter how many teeth the child has. The earlier you visit the dentist, the quicker you can secure the child's teeth for the future.



Dentists may detect any signs of dental deformities or tooth decay, enabling you to nip the problem in the bud before it gets out of hand.

Semi-annual dental trips can also teach you excellent oral care for your kid, allowing the child to grow up in a home with proper dental hygiene and fewer dental issues.

How Long Does a Cleaning Take at the Dentist?

The answer to "how long does a cleaning take at the dentist?" can vary. Typical dental cleaning for kids can take 10–45 minutes, but the appointment can last 60–90 minutes.



The duration of the dental cleaning depends on the minor's behavior and acceptance of the pediatric dentist working in the child's space. Some kids have no qualms at the dentist, especially those prepared for the dental visit by parents.

X-rays can be challenging and time-consuming because the ones going into the child's mouth may be uncomfortable and need the ability to bite well while everyone else vacates the room.

An experienced dentist can expedite the process by making the child relaxed and comfortable. For example, they can explain the process, take it at the child's speed, and reward the child for completed steps.

What To Expect in a Child's Dental Cleaning

The following steps take place after you and the child check-in and fill out the necessary paperwork:

1. Introductions: The dentist introduces themselves and explains what they will do to you and/or the child. If x-rays are necessary, the dentist or an assistant takes quick pictures to ensure they don't miss cavities or abnormalities that aren't visible to the naked eye.
2. Examinations: The dentist thoroughly inspects the child's oral soft tissues. This check looks for any abnormalities and ensures the child's teeth are developing well. The dentist can use a piece of curved equipment to poke the child's teeth to find any cavities and measure the pockets between the gums and teeth. A dentist can call this process "counting the teeth" to avoid alarming the child, and it shouldn't hurt.
3. Dental cleaning: The pediatric dentist cleans the child's teeth using an electric spinning tooth polisher and a fun flavored toothpaste. They also check for hardened plaque (tartar) and remove it using another curved equipment to prevent tooth decay due to tartar build-up.
4. Aftercare: If you approve, the dentist can apply flavored fluoride varnish with a q-tip or paint it onto the child's teeth and leave it to sit for some minutes.
5. Finishing up: If everything proceeds smoothly and there aren't any concerns or cavities, the dentist can remind you of at-home oral hygiene practices and steps with the child. The dentist can suggest applying dental sealants in subsequent appointments depending on the child's age. If you can spare some time, the dentist can put the adhesive to seal and protect the child's teeth from cavities before you leave.

Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry can clean your child's teeth. We are a professional, caring, and affordable pediatric dental services clinic in Shawnee, Kansas. Book an appointment today for smooth and considerate pediatric dental cleaning.