Brushing and flossing at home are essential, but they’re not enough to keep your teeth and
gums healthy. Regular dental checkups help catch problems early and keep your smile looking
its best.
Most people are familiar with routine dental cleanings, but some may need a deeper
level of care. A deep cleaning goes beyond what a standard cleaning can achieve. It is
designed to remove bacteria and plaque that have built up below the gumline. Knowing the
difference between these cleanings helps you choose what’s best for your teeth and gums.
What Happens During a Regular Dental Cleaning?
A regular dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure that helps keep
teeth and gums healthy. During this appointment, a dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar
from the surfaces of the teeth. Special instruments are used to clean along the gumline and
between teeth. After the removal of plaque, the teeth are polished to remove surface stains and
make it harder for bacteria to stick. The hygienist may also apply fluoride treatment to
strengthen the enamel. This type of cleaning is recommended every six months to prevent
cavities and gum disease.
What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a more advanced procedure used to treat gum
disease. When plaque and bacteria build-up under the gums, they can cause infections and
even lead to bone loss. Deep cleaning involves scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from
below the gumline, and root planing, which smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach.
This procedure usually takes more than one visit, and numbing medication can help make it
more comfortable. Deep cleaning is necessary when there are signs of gum disease, such as
bleeding, swelling, or receding gums.
Key Differences Between the Two Cleanings
The main difference between a regular dental cleaning and a deep cleaning is the level of care
required. A regular cleaning focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and gumline, while a deep
cleaning goes beneath the gums to remove bacteria. Deep cleanings are only needed for
patients who have gum disease, whereas routine cleanings are for prevention. Another key
difference is the use of anesthesia. Regular cleanings do not usually require numbing, but deep
cleanings often do because the process can be more uncomfortable. Recovery time also differs.
Patients who receive a deep cleaning may experience tenderness or sensitivity for a few days,
while regular cleanings have little to no recovery period.
When Is a Deep Cleaning Necessary?
Deep cleanings are recommended when gum disease is present. Early signs of gum disease
include persistent bad breath, swollen gums, and bleeding during brushing or flossing. If it
worsens, the gums can pull back, and the teeth may loosen. A dentist determines the need for a
deep cleaning by measuring the pockets around the teeth. Pockets deeper than 4 millimeters
indicate gum disease and require treatment. If these signs are ignored, they can lead to
significant issues, like losing teeth. Deep cleaning helps control the infection and prevent further
damage.
Benefits of Regular and Deep Cleanings
Both types of cleanings provide important benefits for oral health. Getting regular cleanings
helps keep your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your breath fresh. They also allow dentists
to catch dental problems early. Deep cleanings, on the other hand, stop gum disease from
progressing and help save teeth that might otherwise be lost. After a deep cleaning, patients
must follow good oral hygiene practices to maintain their results. Brushing, flossing, and regular
dental visits are essential for keeping gums healthy. Whether a person needs a regular cleaning
or a deep cleaning, professional dental care is necessary for a healthy smile.
Regular dental cleanings and deep cleanings serve different purposes, but both are essential for
maintaining oral health. Routine cleanings help prevent problems, while deep cleanings treat
existing gum disease. Knowing which cleaning you need can help keep your teeth and gums
healthy. Those with healthy gums can stick to regular cleanings, while those with gum disease
may need deep cleanings to stop further damage. Good oral hygiene at home, combined with
professional dental care, keeps smiles looking and feeling their best. Taking proactive steps to
care for teeth and gums can lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
