At Aspen Green Dental, we believe that a healthy smile is more than just a confidence booster—it’s a reflection of your overall well-being. One of the most common questions our patients ask is: “Do I need a routine cleaning or a deep cleaning?” While both types of cleanings aim to improve your oral health, they serve very different purposes. Let’s break down the difference so you can better understand which one your smile truly needs.
What Is Routine Dental Cleaning?
Also known as prophylaxis, a routine dental cleaning is a preventive treatment typically performed every six months. It’s ideal for individuals with generally healthy gums and no signs of gum disease.
During a routine cleaning, our dental hygienists will:
- Remove plaque and tartar from teeth surfaces
- Polish your teeth to remove surface stains
- Floss to eliminate plaque between teeth
- Evaluate overall oral health, including gums and soft tissues
Routine cleanings are essential for preventing tooth decay, gingivitis, and more serious oral health problems down the road. At Aspen Green Dental, we make sure every routine cleaning is thorough, gentle, and tailored to your comfort.
What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure typically recommended when signs of periodontal (gum) disease are present. This is not part of your regular cleaning schedule—it’s a treatment to address infection and inflammation beneath the gum line.
Deep cleanings involve:
- Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline
- Root Planing: Smoothing the root surfaces so gums can reattach to the teeth
You might need a deep cleaning if you are experiencing:
- Persistent bad breath
- Bleeding gums
- Gum recession
- Loose teeth
- Pockets between your gums and teeth (as measured during a periodontal exam)
At Aspen Green Dental, our highly trained team uses advanced tools and techniques to ensure your deep cleaning is effective, comfortable, and successful in restoring your oral health.
How Do You Know Which One You Need?
The best way to determine whether you need a routine or deep cleaning is through a comprehensive dental exam. Here’s what we evaluate at Aspen Green Dental:
- Gum pocket depth
- Bleeding or inflammation of the gums
- Plaque and tartar buildup
- Tooth mobility
- Medical and dental history
If no signs of gum disease are present, routine cleanings every six months are usually enough. However, if we find symptoms of periodontal disease, a deep cleaning may be the first step to prevent further damage and restore gum health.
Why Choose Aspen Green Dental?
At Aspen Green Dental, we are passionate about delivering modern, patient-focused care in a welcoming environment. Whether you need a simple cleaning or advanced periodontal treatment, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.
- State-of-the-art technology for accurate diagnosis and treatment
- Highly skilled professionals who prioritize your comfort
- Personalized care plans to fit your unique dental needs
We believe everyone deserves the highest standard of care, and we’re here to provide it—every visit, every smile.
Book Your Appointment Today
Still unsure what kind of cleaning your smile needs? Let us help! Schedule a dental exam with Aspen Green Dental, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
👉 New patients are always welcome. Call or book online to get started on your journey to a healthier smile!