Regular dental cleanings help prevent oral issues, while deep cleanings treat gum disease by cleaning below the gumline. Deep cleanings are more intensive and necessary when signs of infection or gum damage are present. Knowing the difference ensures you get the right care at the right time.
Dental cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health, but not all cleanings are the same. If your dentist has recommended a "deep cleaning," you might wonder how it's different from a regular dental cleaning—and whether it’s truly necessary. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between the two so you know what to expect and why each one matters.
Also known as a “prophylaxis,” a regular dental cleaning is a preventive treatment performed during routine dental visits. It’s designed to keep healthy mouths clean and prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems.
During a standard cleaning, a dental hygienist will:
It typically takes about 30–60 minutes and is recommended every six months for most people.
A deep cleaning—technically called scaling and root planing—goes below the gumline to treat gum disease (periodontitis or advanced gingivitis). It’s a therapeutic procedure rather than a preventive one.
A deep cleaning involves:
It may require local anesthesia and multiple appointments depending on severity.
You may need a regular cleaning if:
You may need a deep cleaning if:
Your dentist will use a periodontal probe to measure pocket depth and determine the best course of treatment.
After a regular cleaning, you can return to normal activities immediately.
After a deep cleaning, your gums may feel sore or sensitive for a few days. Your dentist may recommend:
Keeping up with good oral hygiene is crucial to maintaining results.
Both cleanings play a vital role in oral health. Regular cleanings help prevent disease, while deep cleanings treat existing issues and stop them from getting worse. Ignoring gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other complications, so early intervention is key.
Understanding the difference between a dental cleaning and a deep cleaning helps you take control of your oral health. If your dentist recommends a deep cleaning, it’s because your gums need extra care—and taking action now can prevent much more serious issues later on.
