Deep Cleanings Vs. Regular Cleanings: What’s The Difference?

If your dentist recently told you that you need a “deep cleaning”, you may be wondering what the difference is between this treatment and a standard, run-of-the-mill cleaning you receive during regular checkups. The team at Carmel Mountain Ranch Dental Care wants you to be fully informed about the different levels of cleanings, so here’s everything you need to know:

Regular Cleanings & Oral Exams – The First Step Of Preventive Dentistry

Every six months, it’s important to schedule a regular cleaning and oral exam. Regular teeth cleanings are totally non-invasive, and are the cornerstone of preventive dentistry. It’s usually best to have your teeth cleaned every six months. To begin, a dental hygienist will scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth, and conduct a basic oral exam. Then, your teeth will be cleaned and polished with a gritty toothpaste, and flossed. X-rays may be taken, then Dr. Carpenter will examine your mouth to check for signs of common oral health issues, like gingivitis, tooth decay or teeth grinding. Then, they’ll discuss your results with you, and any follow-up appointments you might need.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) – Treatment For Gingivitis & Gum Disease

Deep cleaning is not necessary for every patient. It’s a special type of cleaning that is focused on eliminating the bacteria that cause gum disease. If you have gingivitis (the first stage of gum disease) or a more serious case of gum disease, you’ll need a deep cleaning.Unlike a regular cleaning, this treatment takes 2 appointments. Half of your mouth will be cleaned at each visit. Your mouth will be numbed, then Dr. Carpenter will use special dental tools to clean plaque and tartar away from between your teeth and gums. The roots of your teeth will also be smoothed to eliminate pockets of bacteria, and eliminate gum disease.Along with antibiotics, this is the first step in a periodontal care regimen. Depending on the extent of your gum disease, you may need further deep cleanings, or even surgical intervention to restore your oral health.

What’s Right For Me? A Deep Cleaning Or A Regular Cleaning?

If you don’t have gum disease, you have no need for a deep cleaning. Deep cleanings are meant to clean plaque and tartar from between your teeth and under your gums, and are not needed if you don’t have excessive plaque/tartar buildup. You’ll only need a regular six-month teeth cleaning and oral exam to clean your teeth, and ensure that your mouth is healthy. However, if you do have plaque and tartar buildup that has caused gum disease, Dr. Carpenter may recommend a deep cleaning to address this and restore your oral health. Along with antibiotics, a deep cleaning is usually enough to resolve minor-to-moderate cases of gum disease.

Come To Carmel Mountain Ranch Dental Care To Get The Dental Treatment You Need!

Whether you just need to see a dentist for a standard cleaning or you believe that you may have gum disease and require a deep cleaning, Dr. Carpenter is here to help. At Carmel Mountain Ranch Dental Care, we provide comprehensive preventive care to patients of all ages, and we’re always accepting new patients. Set up your first appointment now by giving us a call at (858) 487-6453, or feel free to come by our office at 12075 Carmel Mountain Rd, Suite 210, San Diego, CA 92128.