Yes. The difference between a deep cleaning vs. regular cleaning depends on the health of your gums.
Regular Six-Month Teeth Cleaning
A regular dental cleaning helps prevent dental problems before they start and is recommended for patients with healthy teeth and gums.
During your six-month visit, your dental team does the following:
- Remove plaque and tartar from above the gumline
- Polish your teeth
- Check for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other concerns
If gum disease develops, a deep cleaning may be the better option.
Deep Teeth Cleaning
Also called "scaling and root planing," a deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, where bacteria can cause inflammation, infection, and damage to the bone that supports your teeth.This type of cleaning also smooths the tooth roots, which gives your gums a better chance to heal and reattach to the teeth.
Which Type of Cleaning Do I Need?
Dr. Talbert will carefully examine your teeth and gums during your visit to determine which type of cleaning is right for you. He measures the spaces around your teeth, looks for signs of inflammation or bleeding, and checks for bone loss.
No matter which cleaning you need, routine dental visits are one of the best ways to protect your smile for years to come. Call us today to schedule your dental cleaning!