Difference Between a Routine Cleaning and a Deep Cleaning
Dental cleanings are important to maintain good oral health. Not all dental cleanings are the same. The most common types are routine cleaning and deep cleaning. They are different in several ways. They involve different types of cleaning, they take different amounts of time, and their cost is not the same. Your dentist will explain which type of cleaning you need and why.
Routine Dental Cleaning
A routine dental cleaning is usually done every six months. This cleaning is offered to patients with healthy teeth and gums. Its purpose is to maintain good oral hygiene and to prevent future problems like cavities and gum disease.
During a routine cleaning:
- Plaque and tartar are removed from the tooth surfaces above the gumline by the hygienist.
- By polishing the teeth surface, stains are eliminated, and the enamel ends up clean and smooth.
- Fluoride treatment is offered to strengthen teeth and prevent decay. This treatment is optional and has a separate cost.
Routine cleanings take about 30–60 minutes and are usually painless. They are essential for preventing gum disease, cavities, and serious oral health problems. Most routine cleanings are covered by insurance twice a year. X-rays are covered once a year with cleaning. If the patient does not have insurance, prices will vary depending on the city and type of dental practice.
Deep Cleaning
Deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a dental procedure for patients with periodontal disease. Deep cleanings target areas underneath the gumline, where bacteria and tartar accumulate and can cause infection.
During a deep cleaning:
- Hygienists will clean your teeth with polishing tools.
- The hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and underneath the gums, known as scaling.
- The procedure ends with root planning, which smooths the roots of teeth to help gums reattach and reduce periodontal pockets where bacteria thrive.
Deep cleaning usually takes between 1 and 2 hours. The process is more invasive, and local anesthesia is often used. This will minimize discomfort. The procedure may require more than one visit, depending on the severity of gum disease. Patients may experience mild soreness afterwards and will need a follow-up visit. The dentist will determine how often deep cleanings are needed before the teeth and gums are ready for routine cleanings. If the patient has insurance, the percentage of the deep cleaning might be covered. If the patient does not have insurance, contacting the dentist's office ahead of time is recommended to get an estimate.
Reach out for support
It is recommended for most people to visit the dentist twice a year. Your dentist will recommend a personalized schedule depending on your oral health, overall health, and risk factors. Permanent damage to your teeth and gums can be prevented by visiting your dentist regularly. If your dentist suggests a deep cleaning, please follow through with the treatment. Please get in touch with our office if you have any questions or need an appointment.