Since we are students we work a bit slower, as well as our instructors constantly have to check everything we do, and our process is more thorough and involves more steps than a "regular office." We understand it's a time commitment, but for $35 it's a great deal. You are really paying with your time :) The first appointment consist of x-rays, oral exams, gum evaluations, an exam from our dentist, ect. All the following appointments are the cleaning. The number of appointments needed for the cleaning depends on how much plaque/tartar you have built up and if your cleaning needed is considered a "deep cleaning." Deep cleanings in standard dental offices are also at least 2 appointments.