The Difference Between Dental Cleanings and Deep Cleanings

Oral health is a critical part of your overall well-being, yet many people tend to overlook the importance of routine dental care. Among the most crucial procedures for maintaining healthy teeth and gums are dental cleanings and deep cleanings. While the two may sound similar, they serve very different purposes. Understanding these differences can empower you to make informed decisions about your oral health. 

What Are Dental Cleanings? 

Dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are routine preventive care procedures designed to maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental issues like cavities and gum disease. Most dentists recommend having a dental cleaning every six months, although the frequency can vary based on individual needs. 

During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, including hard-to-reach areas that your regular brushing and flossing might miss. This procedure helps prevent decay, reduces the risk of gum disease, and leaves your teeth looking clean and polished. 

Key Steps in a Dental Cleaning:

• Scaling: The hygienist uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth’s surface and between the teeth. 
• Polishing: Your teeth are polished using a high-powered toothbrush and special toothpaste to eliminate any remaining stains or surface debris. 
• Fluoride Treatment (Optional): Some cleanings end with a fluoride treatment to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. 

Dental cleanings are quick, generally painless, and are often seen as the first step toward a lifetime of good oral health. 

What Are Deep Cleanings? 

Deep cleanings, or scaling and root planing, are a more intensive dental procedure specifically aimed at treating gum disease (periodontitis) or preventing its progression. Unlike routine cleanings, deep cleanings address the areas below the gumline, where bacteria can accumulate and cause inflammation. 

This procedure is recommended for people who have an advanced buildup of plaque and tartar under the gums or symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth. Deep cleanings are often part of a periodontal therapy plan to halt gum disease and restore oral health. 

Key Steps in a Deep Cleaning:

• Scaling Below the Gumline: Tartar and plaque are meticulously removed not only from the teeth but also from the pockets between your gums and teeth. 
• Root Planing: The roots of your teeth are smoothed out to help your gums reattach to your teeth and make it harder for bacteria to accumulate in the future. 
• Anesthetic Use: Since deep cleanings go beneath the gumline, your dentist or hygienist may administer a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. 

Deep cleanings are typically divided into two appointments, one for each side of the mouth, depending on the extent of the plaque and tartar buildup. 

The Main Differences Between Dental Cleaning and Deep Cleaning 

1. Purpose 

• Dental Cleaning is preventive, designed to maintain oral health and stop problems before they start. 
• Deep Cleaning is therapeutic, aimed at treating existing gum disease and preventing its progression. 

2. Areas Treated 

• Dental Cleaning focuses on removing surface plaque and tartar. 
• Deep Cleaning goes below the gumline to clean tooth roots and gum pockets. 

3. Procedure Intensity 

• Dental Cleaning is gentle, non-invasive, and typically pain-free. It rarely requires any form of anesthetic. 
• Deep Cleaning is more intensive. It may involve anesthetics and requires more time to complete due to its thorough nature. 

4. Frequency 

• Dental Cleaning is usually performed every six months for most people. Some may require more frequent cleanings if they are at higher risk for decay or gum disease. 
• Deep Cleaning is performed as needed, typically when there are signs of gum disease. 

5. Cost and Insurance Coverage 

• Dental insurance plans often fully or partially cover regular dental cleanings, as these are considered preventive care. 
• Deep cleanings may involve higher out-of-pocket expenses, as they are considered a specialized periodontal procedure. However, many insurance plans still provide partial coverage. 

Benefits of Both Dental and Deep Cleanings 

Both types of cleanings play an important role in oral health, and understanding their benefits can help you prioritize preventive and restorative care. 

Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings:

• Keeps teeth and gums healthy. 
• Prevents tartar buildup and cavities. 
• Helps maintain fresh breath. 
• Provides an opportunity for the dentist to detect early signs of dental issues. 

Benefits of Deep Cleanings:

• Stops gum disease in its tracks. 
• Reduces symptoms like bleeding, swelling, and bad breath. 
• Helps gums heal and reattach to the teeth. 
• Prevents the need for more invasive periodontal treatments, such as gum surgery. 

How Do I Know Which Cleaning I Need? 

Deciding between a dental cleaning and a deep cleaning depends on the state of your oral health, which your dentist can evaluate during a routine check-up. 

You may need a dental cleaning if:

• It’s been six months since your last cleaning. 
• You have no signs of gum disease, like bleeding gums or loose teeth. 

You may need a deep cleaning if:

• Your gums are inflamed, swollen, or bleeding. 
• You’ve been diagnosed with gum disease or have deep gum pockets where bacteria and tartar are accumulating. 

Regular preventive care, such as scheduling consistent dental cleanings, can often eliminate the need for deep cleanings.

Maintaining Oral Health After Cleanings 

Whether you’ve just had a dental cleaning or a deep cleaning, maintaining your oral health is crucial for long-lasting results. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums in top shape:

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. 
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth. 
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce harmful bacteria. 
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. 
• Avoid tobacco products, which can exacerbate gum disease. 
• Maintain a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages. 

Final Thoughts 

Understanding the differences between dental cleanings and deep cleanings is essential for ensuring the health of your teeth and gums. Regular dental cleanings are key to preventing issues, while deep cleanings serve as an effective treatment for gum disease. Maintaining routine oral care at home and visiting your dentist as recommended can ultimately save you time, money, and discomfort. 

By taking the right steps, you can keep your smile healthy, bright, and free from gum disease. If you’re unsure about which type of cleaning is right for you, consult your dentist for a thorough evaluation and personalized recommendations.