Deep Cleaning Vs. Regular Cleaning: What Your Gums Really Need
Was “deep cleaning” recommended and you’re not sure why? Let’s demystify the difference between a routine cleaning and scaling and root planing (SRP), commonly called a deep cleaning, so you can feel confident about next steps for your gum health.
What A Regular Cleaning Includes
A preventive cleaning (prophylaxis) removes soft plaque and hardened tartar above the gumline. We also polish to reduce surface stains, review home-care tips, and update X-rays and exam findings. For most healthy mouths, this every-six-months rhythm maintains gum health and freshens your smile.
What A Deep Cleaning Really Does
When plaque stays long enough to harden below the gumline, it irritates tissues and creates deeper pockets between teeth and gums. Scaling and root planing gently removes tartar from these pockets and smooths the root surfaces so your gums can reattach and inflammation can calm down. It’s therapeutic—aimed at treating gum disease, not just maintaining.
How We Determine Which You Need
We measure periodontal pocket depths, check for bleeding on probing, review bone levels on X-rays, and assess plaque and tartar distribution.
Healthy Gums: 1–3 mm pockets, minimal bleeding → Regular cleaning.
Gingivitis: Bleeding but no bone loss → Enhanced preventive care + coaching.
Periodontitis: 4+ mm pockets, tartar below gums, bone changes → Deep cleaning.
Comfort And Process
We focus on comfort. Local anesthetic or topical gels make SRP a relaxed experience. We usually treat one or two quadrants per visit and may place localized medicaments where bacteria are stubborn. You’ll get clear aftercare guidance and tools for home.
What Recovery Feels Like
Expect mild tenderness and temporary temperature sensitivity. A soft-bristled brush, gentle flossing technique, and warm saltwater rinses help. Most patients return to normal routines the same day.
Why Deep Cleaning Matters
Untreated periodontal disease can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss. Additionally, inflamed gums can affect overall wellness. Deep cleaning reduces bacterial load, improves breath, and gives your tissues a chance to heal.
Maintenance After SRP
Healing doesn’t end at the appointment. We’ll recommend periodontal maintenance every 3–4 months to prevent relapse. At home, use:
Power Toothbrush with a pressure sensor if you tend to scrub.
Floss Or Interdental Brushes to clean between teeth.
Water Flosser if you have bridges or tight spots.
Non-Alcohol Mouthrinse to support gum health.
Cost, Coverage, And Value
Insurance often classifies SRP differently than routine cleanings. We provide clear estimates and options through our Financing page and can discuss our in-house plan to make care predictable.
Can I Avoid Deep Cleaning With “Extra Thorough” Regular Cleanings?
Unfortunately, no. Once tartar has accumulated below the gumline and pockets deepen, a routine cleaning won’t reach or resolve the problem. SRP is the correct therapy to treat the infection and promote reattachment.
Your Next Steps In Northgate
If your gums bleed, feel puffy, or you’ve noticed bad breath that won’t budge, we can help. Review our Services, check times on Schedule Online, or ask us about personalized home-care coaching.
Ready to get your gums back on track? Call Rain City Dentistry at (206) 526-1985 to Schedule a Consultation and create your personalized periodontal plan.
