Dental cleanings keep your teeth and gums healthy, but not all cleanings are the same. Here’s the difference:
🪥 Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
- Removes plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline
- Polishes teeth and cleans surfaces
- Typically done every 6 months for healthy gums
- Prevents cavities and mild gum disease
- May require a strong topical anaesthetic but usually could be done without any anaesthetic
🦷 Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)
- Required when gum disease (periodontitis) is present
- Removes plaque and tartar from greater than 1-2mm below the gumline
- Smooths root surfaces to help gums reattach
- Often done in multiple visits
- Helps stop progression of gum disease and prevent tooth loss
- Requires a local anaesthetic
✅ Bottom line: Routine cleanings are preventive, while deep cleanings are therapeutic — both keep your smile healthy, but deep cleaning treats existing gum problems.
