Teeth Cleaning vs. Deep Teeth Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene requires more than daily brushing and flossing. Professional dental cleaning procedures, such as teeth cleaning and deep teeth cleaning (also known as scaling and root planing), are essential for preserving both the health of your teeth and gums.

However, many patients confuse standard teeth cleaning with deep cleaning, not knowing that these two procedures address very different oral health needs. At LHC Clinic, we provide both treatments, carefully assessing each patient’s condition to recommend the most appropriate approach.

In this article, we'll clarify the key differences between standard teeth cleaning and deep teeth cleaning, explain when each is necessary, and outline the benefits of professional cleaning for a healthier smile.

What is Standard Teeth Cleaning?

Purpose
Standard teeth cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure performed on patients with healthy gums and minimal plaque or tartar buildup. It focuses on:

• Removing plaque, tartar, and stains from above the gum line.
• Polishing teeth to make them smooth and shiny.
• Preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Procedure Steps

• Oral examination to check for cavities, gum inflammation, or other concerns.
• Scaling using ultrasonic tools or hand instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and just above the gum line.
• Polishing with a special paste to smooth the enamel and remove surface stains.
• Fluoride application (optional) for added protection.

Recommended Frequency

• Every 6 months for most patients.
• Every 3 to 4 months for patients with orthodontic appliances, smokers, or those prone to plaque buildup.

What is Deep Teeth Cleaning?

Purpose
Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic treatment for patients with gum disease (periodontitis) or significant tartar buildup below the gum line. It focuses on:

• Removing bacterial deposits and tartar from beneath the gums (subgingival scaling).
• Smoothing root surfaces (root planing) to help gums reattach and heal.
• Stopping the progression of gum infection and bone loss.

Procedure Steps

• Comprehensive periodontal evaluation, including probing of gum pockets.
• Local anesthesia to ensure comfort.
• Scaling beneath the gum line, removing hardened tartar and bacteria from the root surfaces.
• Root planing to smooth roots, discouraging bacterial reattachment.
• Antibacterial treatments or medications may be applied into gum pockets.
• Follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure the infection is under control.

Recommended Frequency

• Usually performed in 2 or more sessions, depending on the severity of the case.
• Maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months afterward to prevent disease recurrence.

Key Differences Between Teeth Cleaning and Deep Cleaning

• Purpose: Standard – Preventive maintenance | Deep – Treatment of gum disease (periodontitis)
• Target Area: Standard – Above gum line (supragingival) | Deep – Below gum line (subgingival) and roots
• Need for Anesthesia: Standard – Not required | Deep – Often required
• Frequency: Standard – Every 6 months | Deep – As needed, based on condition
• Primary Benefit: Standard – Plaque and stain removal | Deep – Stops gum disease, prevents tooth loss

Benefits of Professional Cleaning at LHC Clinic

• Prevention of gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss.
• Fresh breath and brighter smile.
• Detection of dental issues early before they progress.
• Better oral hygiene education and personal recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if I need deep cleaning instead of regular cleaning?
A: Patients with bleeding gums, bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, or deep gum pockets (over 4mm) are likely to need deep cleaning. At LHC Clinic, we assess your gum health and recommend the right procedure.

Q: Is deep cleaning painful?
A: Deep cleaning is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring comfort during the procedure. Some mild sensitivity or discomfort might occur afterward, but it typically resolves within a few days.

Q: Can deep cleaning reverse gum disease?
A: While deep cleaning cannot fully reverse advanced periodontitis, it is effective at halting its progression, promoting gum healing, and preventing further damage.

Understanding the difference between standard teeth cleaning and deep teeth cleaning is crucial for maintaining your oral and overall health.

At LHC Clinic, we provide personalized preventive care and advanced periodontal treatments, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy and beautiful. Whether you need routine cleaning or a more intensive periodontal approach, our expert team is here to support you every step of the way.

If you are unsure which type of cleaning you need, book a professional dental assessment at LHC Clinic, and let's protect your smile together.