A regular dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a routine procedure that helps maintain your oral health by removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. This type of cleaning is typically recommended every six months and is suitable for patients with generally healthy gums and teeth.

During a regular cleaning, our dental hygienist will:

• Remove Plaque and Tartar: Using specialized tools, plaque and tartar are gently scraped off the surface of your teeth, especially around the gum line.
• Polish Your Teeth: After the removal of plaque and tartar, your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and make them smoother, which helps prevent future plaque buildup.
• Flossing: Finally, your teeth will be flossed to remove any remaining debris between them, ensuring a thorough clean.

Regular cleanings are essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They also give your dentist an opportunity to monitor your oral health and catch any potential problems early.

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure designed to treat gum disease (periodontitis) and prevent it from worsening. It goes beyond the surface of your teeth to clean below the gum line, removing bacteria, plaque, and tartar that have accumulated in the pockets between your teeth and gums.

During a deep cleaning, our dental hygienist will:

• Scaling: This process involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth as well as from the pockets below the gum line. It helps to eliminate the bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
• Root Planing: After scaling, the roots of your teeth are smoothed out to help your gums reattach to your teeth and reduce the depth of the pockets where bacteria can thrive.

Deep cleaning is typically recommended for patients showing signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums, gum recession, or deep pockets around the teeth. It may be done in multiple visits, depending on the severity of the condition.

Not everyone needs a deep cleaning. Your dentist will recommend this procedure if you have symptoms of gum disease that can’t be addressed with a regular cleaning alone. Signs that you may need a deep cleaning include:

• Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed easily when you brush or floss, it could be a sign of gum disease.
• Gum Recession: When gums pull away from the teeth, it creates pockets where bacteria can accumulate.
• Persistent Bad Breath: Bad breath that doesn’t go away with regular brushing and flossing can be a symptom of gum disease.
• Loose Teeth: As gum disease progresses, it can cause teeth to become loose or even fall out.

The best way to determine whether you need a regular cleaning or a deep cleaning is to consult with your dentist. At Smile Haus, we conduct thorough examinations to assess your oral health and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Regular cleanings are vital for maintaining good oral hygiene, but if you have gum disease, a deep cleaning may be necessary to restore your gum health and prevent further complications.

Both regular dental cleanings and deep cleanings are important for maintaining a healthy mouth, but they serve different purposes. Regular cleanings help prevent dental problems, while deep cleanings are essential for treating gum disease. At SMILE HAUS, our experienced team is here to provide the care you need, whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more advanced treatment. If you’re due for a cleaning or have concerns about your gum health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us.