Is a Deep Cleaning the Same as a Routine Cleaning? Here’s the Difference

When it comes to keeping your smile healthy, dental cleanings are an essential part of routine care. But not all cleanings are the same. If your dentist has recommended a deep cleaning instead of your regular visit, you might be wondering what that means and how it differs from a routine cleaning. While both types of cleanings are important for maintaining oral health, they serve different purposes and are used in different situations.
 

What Is a Routine Dental Cleaning?

A routine cleaning, also called a prophylaxis cleaning, is a standard part of preventive dental care. Most patients have this type of cleaning every six months during their regular checkups.
 

Here’s what you can expect during a routine cleaning:

• Removal of plaque and tartar from the surface of teeth

• Polishing of the teeth to remove surface stains

• Flossing to clean between the teeth

• Gum health evaluation to check for signs of inflammation or disease
   

Routine cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, preventing cavities, and catching potential issues early on.
 

What Is a Deep Cleaning?

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more advanced dental procedure used to treat gum disease (periodontitis). If your dentist notices signs of gum infection, such as inflammation, bleeding gums, or deep gum pockets, they may recommend this treatment.
 

Deep cleaning involves:

• Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar buildup from below the gumline, where regular cleaning tools can’t reach

• Root planing: Smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach and prevent further bacterial growth
   

This procedure often requires multiple visits and may involve local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
 

Key Differences Between Deep and Routine Cleanings

While both types of cleanings aim to support your oral health, the purpose and approach behind each one is quite different. A routine cleaning is preventive in nature - it helps maintain healthy teeth and gums by removing plaque and tartar from above the gumline. This type of cleaning is typically recommended every six months for individuals with good oral health and no signs of gum disease.
 

On the other hand, a deep cleaning is a therapeutic treatment designed to address active gum disease. Unlike routine cleanings, deep cleanings go beneath the gumline to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar that have accumulated around the roots of the teeth. This process, known as scaling and root planing, helps stop the progression of gum disease and encourages the gums to reattach to the teeth.
 

Another key difference lies in the depth of treatment and time involved. Routine cleanings are usually completed in a single visit and do not require anesthesia. Deep cleanings, however, may be performed over multiple appointments and often involve local anesthesia to keep patients comfortable during the procedure.
 

Which One Do You Need?

Whether you need a routine or deep cleaning depends on your oral health. If your gums are healthy and your plaque buildup is minimal, a routine cleaning is all that’s needed. But if you’re showing signs of gum disease, a deep cleaning can help stop the progression and restore gum health. The best way to know is to schedule a dental exam. Our dentist will evaluate your teeth and gums and recommend the best course of action for your needs.
 

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Smile

At Vida Family Dental of San Marcos, we provide comprehensive dental care tailored to your oral health needs. Whether you’re due for a checkup or think you might need a deep cleaning, our team is here to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.
 

Contact Vida Family Dental of San Marcos to schedule your routine or deep cleaning and get the care that’s right for you. Visit our office in San Marcos, California, or call (760) 471-9292 to book an appointment today.