More Than Just a Clean: Understanding the Difference Between Routine and Deep Dental Cleanings

More Than Just a Clean:

Depending on the state of your oral health, your
Uptown Charlotte dentist may recommend
either a routine dental cleaning or a deep
cleaning.
Understanding the difference between the two
can help you make informed decisions about
your dental care.

Routine dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral
health and are usually recommended twice a year for most people.
They are preventive in nature, aimed at averting the development of
gum disease and cavities.

On the other hand, a deep cleaning, medically known as scaling
and root planing, is a more intensive procedure.
This type of cleaning is recommended when there are signs of
gum disease, such as red, swollen gums, or pockets forming
between the gums and teeth.

During a deep cleaning, the dentist or
dental hygienist will clean not just
above, but also below the gum line to
remove hardened plaque and tartar.
The "scaling" part involves scraping off
the tartar from above and below the
gum line.

Dentists often recommend deep cleanings based
on the measurements of your gum pockets.
If the pockets are deeper than 4 millimeters, it's
usually an indication that you cannot clean these
pockets at home, and professional intervention is
needed.

Knowing the difference between these
two types of cleanings can empower
you to have more informed discussions
with your Uptown Charlotte dentist and
take better control of your oral health.