Regular dental cleanings are an important part of keeping your smile healthy and happy. However, from time to time, your dentist may recommend having a deep cleaning instead of an ordinary dental cleaning. You may be wondering what the difference is between these two procedures. Both treatments help protect your teeth and gums, but they serve very different purposes. Understanding the key differences between the two can help you more fully understand how to protect your oral health and navigate your options at the dentist.
What is a standard dental cleaning?
Your regular dental checkup, sometimes called a prophylaxis, is the type of cleaning most people are familiar with. Most dentists recommend getting one every six months to stay ahead of larger oral health issues.1 During your visit, you may experience the following:
These cleanings generally take an hour or so, but can vary based on your teeth’s exact needs.
What is a deep cleaning?
Also known as tooth scaling and root planning, a dental deep cleaning is a more thorough examination and cleaning of your teeth, reaching spots deeper below your gums.2 A dentist might recommend a deep cleaning if you have signs of periodontitis, meaning your gums are swollen or bleeding. A deep cleaning might involve:
This process can help treat bacteria that are trapped in your mouth before they develop into an infection that requires a root canal. You may be prescribed antibiotics after the fact to ensure your mouth is healthy and all the bacteria have been eliminated. This can generally be performed in one visit, though some dentists may prefer to split the work across multiple appointments. After your cleaning, your teeth and gums may feel sensitive. Some swelling or minor bleeding may also occur.
Do I need a regular cleaning or a deep cleaning?
When you visit your dentist for a checkup, they should be able to tell you if you require a deep cleaning or a traditional dental cleaning. While regular dental cleanings are necessary to keep your teeth healthy, deep cleanings are generally only needed if the dentist suspects a risk of gum disease. You won’t need to get a deep cleaning every time you visit.
Keep your teeth clean and healthy
With the right habits, you can avoid needing a deep cleaning at your next dental appointment. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and limiting sugary and acidic foods can help avoid the buildup of harmful bacteria that require more intensive cleaning.3 However, if you do need a deep cleaning at your next appointment, it doesn’t have to be stressful. A dental deep cleaning is a common procedure that’s designed to be the first line of defense for your mouth, so you don’t need more intensive care later. Ask your dentist about a deep cleaning at your next dental checkup.
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