Regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining good oral health. During these visits, the dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth and check for any signs of cavities, gum disease, or other issues. In most cases, a routine cleaning is all that’s necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy. However, for some patients, a deep cleaning may be recommended. Deep cleanings go beyond the surface-level cleaning of a routine cleaning and are essential for maintaining optimal oral health for those who require it. In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between regular cleanings and deep cleanings, and why they are both essential components of a good oral hygiene routine.

Regular Cleanings

Regular cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are typically performed every six months or as recommended by your dentist. This type of cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums. It is a preventive measure to maintain good oral health and prevent gum disease. During a regular cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will also examine your mouth for any signs of dental problems such as cavities or gum disease.

Deep Cleanings

Deep Cleanings 1

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more extensive cleaning procedure than a regular cleaning. It is typically recommended for patients with gum disease, also known as periodontitis. During a deep cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will clean below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar buildup that has accumulated on the teeth and roots. The dentist may also smooth out the roots of the teeth to prevent further buildup of plaque and bacteria.

Benefits of Regular Cleanings

Regular cleanings have many benefits. They help to prevent gum disease, cavities, bad breath, and other dental problems. Regular cleanings also help to maintain good oral health and hygiene. They can also help to identify and treat dental problems before they become more serious.

Benefits of Deep Cleanings

Deep cleanings have several benefits as well. They help to remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup that can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Deep cleanings also help to prevent bone loss and decay in the teeth. By removing buildup below the gum line, deep cleanings can also help to prevent gum recession and sensitivity.

When Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?

A deep cleaning may be necessary if you have gum disease, which is caused by bacteria and plaque buildup below the gum line. Signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums. Your dentist may also recommend a deep cleaning if you have not had a cleaning in a long time or if you have a lot of plaque buildup.

Conclusion

Regular cleanings and deep cleanings are both important for maintaining good oral health. Regular cleanings help to prevent dental problems, while deep cleanings are necessary for treating gum disease. It’s important to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems. If you have any questions about regular cleanings or deep cleanings, contact your dentist today.