Deep cleaning vs. regular cleaning: what's the difference?

What happens in a regular cleaning

A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and just at the gumline, then polishes the enamel. It is preventive care: the goal is to keep healthy gums healthy and give your dentist a regular look at your whole mouth.

What happens in a deep cleaning

Scaling and root planing reaches below the gumline, where gum disease lives. Scaling removes the hardened buildup from the tooth and root surfaces inside the gum pockets; root planing smooths the roots so the gums can reattach snugly. It is often done in sections over more than one visit, with the area numbed for comfort.

How your dentist decides which you need

• Pocket depth: gum pockets measured during your exam tell the story; deeper pockets suggest disease below the gumline
• Bleeding or tenderness: gums that bleed easily can be an early warning sign
• X-ray findings: bone changes around the teeth point toward periodontal treatment
• History: past gum disease often means closer monitoring and maintenance cleanings

After a deep cleaning

Gums usually feel noticeably better as they heal and tighten. Many people then move to a periodontal maintenance schedule, with cleanings a bit more frequent than the standard rhythm, to keep the disease from returning. Your dentist will recommend the interval that fits your gums.

The bottom line

If your gums are healthy, a regular cleaning keeps them that way. If gum disease has started, a deep cleaning treats it before it threatens the bone that holds your teeth. A gum evaluation at Northside Dental will show exactly where you stand. Call 773-561-2237 or use the online appointment request form. This article is general information, not personal dental advice.