When it comes to maintaining good oral health, regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups are essential. While most people are familiar with basic dental cleanings, another type of cleaning, deep tooth cleaning, serves a different purpose. Understanding the differences between these two treatments can help you make informed decisions about your oral health care.

Basic Dental Cleaning: A Routine Maintenance Procedure

A basic dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a routine procedure that is typically performed during your regular dental check-up. This type of cleaning is designed to remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth above the gumline. Your dental hygienist will use specialized tools to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, followed by a polish to remove surface stains.

Deep Tooth Cleaning: Treating Below the Surface

A deep tooth cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, goes beyond the surface cleaning provided by a basic cleaning. This treatment is recommended for patients who have significant plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline, leading to gum disease or periodontitis. During a deep cleaning, your dental hygienist will carefully clean the pockets between your teeth and gums to remove any bacteria and calculus that have accumulated.

The Process: What to Expect

During a basic dental cleaning, the visible surfaces of your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, followed by polishing to leave your smile looking bright and fresh. This process is relatively quick and painless, making it an essential part of preventive dental care.

On the other hand, a deep tooth cleaning may require multiple visits to complete, depending on the severity of your condition. The process involves numbing the area with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort as the hygienist works below the gumline. While deep cleanings may be more time-consuming and slightly uncomfortable compared to basic cleanings, they are crucial for treating gum disease and preventing further oral health issues.

Benefits of Deep Tooth Cleaning

By addressing plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline through deep tooth cleaning, you can prevent gum disease from progressing and potentially avoid more invasive treatments such as surgery. Deep cleanings can also help restore gum health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall oral hygiene.

While both basic dental cleanings and deep tooth cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health, they serve different purposes. Regular basic cleanings are crucial for preventive care, while deep cleanings are necessary for treating gum disease and preventing complications. Contact a local clinic, such as Koehn Dentistry & Aesthetics, to learn more.