Dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining oral health, but not all cleanings are the same. Patients often ask about the difference between a routine dental cleaning and a deep dental cleaning, and when each may be recommended.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for a dental examination or professional advice. Recommendations for care are based on individual clinical assessments.
What Is Routine Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning, sometimes referred to as a prophylaxis, is a preventive service typically performed as part of ongoing dental care for patients with generally healthy gums.
During a routine dental cleaning, a dental professional may:
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Remove plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces
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Clean areas between the teeth
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Polish teeth to remove surface stains
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Assess overall oral health, including the gums and soft tissues
Routine cleanings are commonly included as part of regular dental visits. The frequency of routine cleanings varies and is determined based on individual oral health needs and clinical findings.
What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning?
A deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a treatment that may be recommended when signs of gum inflammation or periodontal conditions are present.
This type of cleaning focuses on areas below the gumline and may involve:
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Scaling: Removal of plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline
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Root planing: Smoothing root surfaces to help reduce bacterial buildup
Deep cleanings are not part of routine preventive care and are recommended only when clinically indicated following an examination.
Signs That a Deep Cleaning May Be Considered?
A dental professional may discuss deep cleaning as an option if clinical findings include:
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Bleeding or inflammation of the gums
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Gum recession
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Increased pocket depths around the teeth
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Tooth mobility
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Persistent buildup below the gumline
These findings are evaluated during an examination and periodontal assessment.
How Is the Appropriate Cleaning Determined?
The most appropriate type of dental cleaning is determined during a dental examination. Factors that may be assessed include:
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Gum pocket depth
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Signs of inflammation or bleeding
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Bone support around the teeth
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Medical and dental history
Based on these findings, a dental professional may recommend routine care, periodontal treatment, or further monitoring.
General Information About Dental Visit Frequency
There is no single schedule that applies to everyone. While some patients may be seen at regular intervals, others may require more frequent or less frequent visits depending on their oral health status.
Your dentist or dental hygienist will recommend a recall schedule based on your individual needs.
About Dental Care at Aspen Green Dental
Aspen Green Dental is a general dental practice providing preventive and restorative dental services. Care recommendations are made based on individual assessments, clinical findings, and patient needs.
If you have questions about dental cleanings or oral health care, an examination can help determine appropriate next steps.
Schedule a dental exam with Aspen Green Dental to determine the appropriate care for your individual needs.
New patients are always welcome. Call or book online to get started!