Maintaining a healthy smile requires more than just daily brushing and flossing. Regular professional cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. However, some patients may require more than just a standard cleaning. If you’ve been told you need a deep cleaning, you may be wondering how it differs from a routine dental cleaning.
At Luxadent in Houston, Dr. Triana and Dr. Perez provide both regular teeth cleanings and deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) to ensure optimal oral health. Understanding the difference between the two can help you determine which treatment is best for you.
What Is a Regular Teeth Cleaning?
A regular dental cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a preventive treatment designed to remove plaque and tartar buildup before it causes serious dental issues. It is recommended for patients with healthy gums and no signs of gum disease.
What Happens During a Regular Teeth Cleaning?
- A dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth
- Teeth are polished to remove stains and smooth out enamel
- Flossing is done to clean between teeth
- A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities
- The dentist performs an oral exam to check for signs of decay, gum disease, or other concerns
Who Needs a Regular Teeth Cleaning?
- Patients with healthy gums and no signs of gum disease
- Those who practice good oral hygiene at home
- Individuals visiting the dentist for routine preventive care
Most patients should schedule a regular dental cleaning every six months to maintain optimal oral health and prevent the need for more extensive treatments.
What Is a Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
A deep cleaning is a specialized treatment used to treat gum disease (periodontitis). It involves a more intensive cleaning process to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar from below the gumline. Unlike a regular cleaning, which focuses on the surfaces of the teeth, a deep cleaning addresses buildup that has accumulated under the gums.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning?
- Scaling: The dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, reaching deep pockets of bacteria
- Root Planing: The tooth roots are smoothed out to prevent bacteria from reattaching and to help the gums heal
- Antibacterial rinses or medication may be applied to reduce infection
- The procedure may be completed over multiple visits, depending on the severity of gum disease
Who Needs a Deep Cleaning?
- Patients with moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis)
- Individuals who experience bleeding, swollen, or receding gums
- Those with deep gum pockets that trap bacteria and plaque
- Patients who have not had a cleaning in several years, leading to excessive tartar buildup
How to Tell If You Need a Deep Cleaning
Your dentist will recommend a deep cleaning if you show signs of gum disease, such as:
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away with regular brushing
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Gum recession, where the gums start to pull away from the teeth
- Deep pockets forming between the teeth and gums
- Loose teeth, which can result from bone loss caused by periodontitis
If left untreated, gum disease can progress, leading to tooth loss, infection, and other serious health issues. A deep cleaning can help restore gum health and prevent further damage.
Regular Teeth Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning: Key Differences
| Feature | Regular Teeth Cleaning | Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) |
| Purpose | Preventive care to remove surface plaque and tartar | Treats gum disease by removing buildup below the gumline |
| Recommended For | Patients with healthy gums | Patients with gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) |
| Procedure | Cleaning of teeth surfaces above the gumline | Scaling below the gumline and smoothing of tooth roots |
| Frequency | Every six months | As needed, based on gum disease severity |
| Healing Time | No recovery time needed | Some mild discomfort or gum sensitivity for a few days |
Does a Deep Cleaning Hurt?
Since deep cleaning involves removing bacteria from below the gums, some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity. To make the procedure more comfortable, we may use:
- Local anesthesia to numb the gums
- Sedation options for patients with dental anxiety
- Over-the-counter pain relievers if mild soreness occurs after the procedure
Most patients recover quickly and notice improvements in gum health within a few weeks.
How to Maintain Gum Health After a Deep Cleaning
To prevent gum disease from returning after a deep cleaning, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in the mouth
- Avoid smoking and reduce sugary foods, which contribute to gum disease
- Visit Luxadent for regular follow-up cleanings and checkups
Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning at Luxadent in Houston
Whether you need a routine teeth cleaning or a deep cleaning, the expert team at Luxadent is here to help. Dr. Triana and Dr. Perez provide personalized dental care to ensure your gums stay healthy and strong. If you’re unsure which type of cleaning you need, we can assess your oral health and recommend the best treatment for you.
Call Luxadent in Houston today to schedule an appointment!Don’t wait until gum disease progresses—take control of your oral health today!