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Many patients are surprised to learn there’s more than one type of dental cleaning. While a routine cleaning is part of preventive care, a deep cleaning is a specialized treatment for patients with gum disease. Understanding the difference helps you know what your dentist recommends and why it matters for your oral health.

What Is a Regular Teeth Cleaning?

A routine dental cleaning (prophylaxis) is typically recommended every six months. During this appointment, your hygienist will:

• Remove plaque and tartar buildup above the gumline.

• Polish your teeth for a smooth, refreshed finish.

• Check for early signs of cavities or gum disease.

This type of cleaning is preventive—it helps keep your mouth healthy and reduces the risk of developing more serious issues.

What Is a Deep Cleaning?

A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) goes beyond the surface. It’s recommended for patients with gum disease or significant tartar buildup beneath the gumline. This procedure involves:

• Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline.

• Root planing: Smoothing tooth roots to help gums reattach and heal.

Because gum disease can’t be managed with brushing and flossing alone, deep cleaning is essential for stopping its progression and preventing tooth loss.

How Do I Know Which Cleaning I Need?

Your dentist will recommend the right option based on:

• The health of your gums.

• The presence of plaque and tartar below the gumline.

• Signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, swelling, or bad breath.

Routine cleanings are for maintenance, while deep cleanings are a treatment for active gum disease.

FAQs About Cleanings

Does a deep cleaning hurt?
Local anesthesia is usually applied, making the procedure comfortable. Some tenderness afterward is normal but temporary.

Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with good hygiene and professional cleanings. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can’t be reversed but can be managed with deep cleaning and ongoing care.

How often do I need deep cleaning?
It depends on the severity of your gum disease. Some patients require more frequent maintenance cleanings afterward.

Why It Matters for Your Health

Gum disease doesn’t just affect your smile—it’s been linked to systemic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. That’s why addressing it early with the right type of cleaning is critical.

At Genesis Dental, we provide both routine and deep cleanings using gentle techniques and advanced technology to keep your smile healthy and bright.

📍 Genesis Dental
1 Broadway, Suite 400
Elmwood Park, NJ 07407
📞 Phone: 201-797-3100
📧 Email: office@genesissmile.com
💻 Book Online: genesissmile.com

Your smile deserves more than surface-level care—let us help you protect it from the inside out.