Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile, and regular dental cleanings play a key role in preventing issues like cavities and gum disease. However, not all dental cleanings are the same. If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning, you may be wondering how it differs from a routine dental cleaning.
At Mikula DDS in Bay Village, we want our patients to understand the differences between dental cleaning vs. deep cleaning, when each is necessary, and how they help maintain your oral health.
What is a Routine Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning, also known as a prophylaxis, is a preventive treatment designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Most patients undergo this type of cleaning during their biannual dental checkup.
What Happens During a Routine Dental Cleaning?
During a regular dental cleaning, the following steps are performed:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal – A dental hygienist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth, especially along the gumline.
- Teeth Polishing – After tartar removal, your teeth are polished using a special paste that removes surface stains and smooths your enamel.
- Flossing and Rinsing – Your hygienist will floss between your teeth and rinse your mouth to remove any remaining debris.
- Fluoride Treatment (optional) – Some patients may receive a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
- Dental Exam – Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health concerns.
Who Needs a Routine Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning is recommended for individuals who maintain good oral hygiene and do not show signs of gum disease. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling a dental cleaning every six months to keep your teeth and gums in top shape.
What Is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a more intensive dental procedure designed to treat gum disease. Unlike a routine cleaning that focuses on the tooth surface, a deep cleaning targets bacteria and tartar buildup below the gumline.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning involves two main steps:
- Scaling – The removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, including deep pockets where bacteria have accumulated.
- Root Planing – The smoothing of tooth roots to help gums reattach and prevent further bacterial buildup.
Who Needs a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning is necessary for patients with moderate to severe gum disease. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning if you experience:
- Gum inflammation, swelling, or bleeding
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums
- Deep pockets between your teeth and gums
- Bone loss detected in dental X-Rays
If left untreated, gum disease can progress to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health complications.
Key Differences Between a Dental Cleaning and a Deep Cleaning
A routine dental cleaning focuses on maintaining oral health by removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and along the gumline. It is a preventive measure designed for those with good oral hygiene. A deep cleaning, on the other hand, is a therapeutic procedure aimed at treating gum disease by eliminating plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline and smoothing the roots of the teeth to promote gum reattachment.
What to Expect After a Deep Cleaning
Since deep cleaning is a more intensive treatment, you may experience:
- Mild gum soreness or sensitivity
- Minor bleeding for a few days
- Temporary tooth sensitivity
Your dentist may recommend antibacterial mouthwash, over-the-counter pain relief, and a follow-up visit to monitor healing.
How to Maintain Oral Health After a Cleaning
Whether you receive a routine cleaning or a deep cleaning, maintaining good oral hygiene is key to preventing plaque buildup and gum disease.
Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria
- Avoid smoking and excessive sugar intake
- Schedule regular dental visits every six months
When to Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning
If it has been more than six months since your last cleaning, or if you are experiencing signs of gum disease, it is time to visit Mikula DDS. Our team in Bay Village provides expert preventive and periodontal care to keep your smile healthy. Schedule an appointment or call us at 440-871-7170 to take the next step toward optimal oral health!