Dental Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, dental cleanings are essential - but the type of cleaning you need matters. At Allstar Dental, our goal is to help patients in Garden Grove, CA understand their treatment options so they can make informed decisions about their dental care.
 

What Is a Regular Dental Cleaning?

A regular dental cleaning (also known as a prophylaxis) is a preventive service typically recommended every six months for patients with healthy gums.

What a Regular Cleaning Includes:

• Removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces
• Polishing to remove surface stains
• Flossing between teeth
• A dental exam to check for cavities, gum inflammation, or other concerns

Regular cleanings focus on keeping your teeth and gums healthy and preventing problems like cavities and gingivitis before they start.
 

What Is a Dental Deep Cleaning?

A dental deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic treatment used to manage gum disease. It is recommended when plaque and tartar have built up below the gumline, causing inflammation or infection.

What a Deep Cleaning Includes:

• Scaling to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline
• Root planing to smooth the tooth roots and help gums reattach
• Local anesthesia for comfort, if needed
• Treatment often completed over multiple visits

Deep cleanings are not routine preventive visits - they are necessary when signs of periodontal disease are present.
 

Key Differences Between Regular and Deep Cleanings

The main difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning is their purpose. Regular cleanings are preventive and focus on maintaining healthy teeth and gums by removing plaque and tartar above the gumline. Deep cleanings are used to treat gum disease by removing buildup below the gumline where infection can develop.

They also differ in depth and treatment approach. Regular cleanings are typically quick and comfortable, completed in one visit without anesthesia. Deep cleanings go below the gums, may require local anesthesia for comfort, and are sometimes completed over multiple visits. While regular cleanings are recommended every six months, deep cleanings are only needed when signs of periodontal disease are present.
 

How Do You Know Which One You Need?

Our dentist can determine the type of cleaning you need. During your exam, we will check:

• Gum pocket depth
• Signs of bleeding or inflammation
• Bone loss on X-rays
• Plaque and tartar buildup

If your gums are healthy, a regular cleaning is usually sufficient. If periodontal disease is detected, a deep cleaning may be necessary to prevent further damage, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues.
 

Why Gum Health Matters

Untreated gum disease can lead to serious oral and overall health complications if left unaddressed. As the condition progresses, it can result in tooth loss, persistent bad breath, and may even increase the risk of systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes-related complications.
 

Schedule Your Dental Exam with Allstar Dental Today

If it’s been a while since your last dental visit or you’re experiencing gum sensitivity, bleeding, or bad breath, our team is here to help. As your trusted dentist in Garden Grove, CA, we provide thorough exams, personalized care, and clear guidance every step of the way.

Schedule your next dental cleaning with Allstar Dental and take a proactive step toward a healthier smile. Contact our office in Garden Grove, California, by calling (714) 844-0240 to book an appointment today.