Full Mouth Debridement

Full-mouth debridement is necessary when plaque and tartar buildup are too extensive to be cleaned with a regular dental cleaning. If not removed, this buildup can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. This procedure allows the dentist to better assess the health of your teeth and gums by cleaning the areas that are otherwise too difficult to reach.

While a regular cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums, full-mouth debridement is a more intensive process used when there is significant buildup. It involves deeper scaling to remove stubborn tartar and plaque, often under the gum line, and may take more time than a standard cleaning.

Full-mouth debridement is typically not painful, as local anesthesia can be used if needed for patients with sensitive gums. However, since it is a more intensive cleaning, you may experience some discomfort or tenderness in your gums afterward, especially if there has been significant plaque and tartar buildup.

Full-mouth debridement usually takes longer than a regular cleaning, with most procedures lasting between 1 to 2 hours. The exact duration depends on the extent of plaque and tartar buildup. In some cases, the procedure may be divided into multiple appointments to ensure patient comfort.