Are you losing blood from your gums while brushing? Or worse, were you advised to have a deep cleaning, and you are worried about how serious it is? That’s understandable; doing nothing about gum issues can make you vulnerable to losing teeth, and that is no good.
It is completely normal to be concerned when things begin to go wrong with your oral health. You care about your teeth, but you may not know how bad it is and what you need to do next.
Whether it’s a regular dental cleaning or something more intensive, like a deep cleaning, knowing what each involves can help you take better control.
For patients asking what a deep dental cleaning is, learning the difference is the first step toward better oral care.
What Is a Regular Dental Cleaning?
A regular dental cleaning is also known as a prophylaxis. It is essentially what everyone gets every six months to keep their mouth healthy.
This type of cleaning will focus on plaque, tartar, and stains that have built up on the surfaces of your teeth, mainly above the gum line. Regular cleanings are completed with specialized dental tools and typically are then followed up with polishing and a fluoride rinse.
Regular cleanings are excellent for people who have healthy gums and show no signs of gum disease.
What Is A Deep Dental Cleaning?
If your gums bleed, feel sore, or look swollen, your dentist may recommend a deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing.
This is not your standard cleaning. It involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the root surfaces of your teeth to help the gums reattach.
A deep cleaning procedure is often needed when gum disease (periodontitis) has started to damage the tissue and bone around your teeth. The goal is to stop the infection and prevent further damage.
Dental Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning: Key Differences
Feature | Regular Dental Cleaning | Deep Dental Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) |
For what is it used? | Preventive care | Treating gum disease |
Gum Condition | Healthy gums | Signs of gum disease (bleeding, swelling, pockets) |
Area Cleaned | Above the gumline | Below the gumline and tooth roots |
How frequently should you take it? | Every 6 months (usually) | As needed, often done in multiple visits |
Pain/Anesthesia | Painless, no anesthesia needed | May require local anesthesia |
Recovery Time Taken | No recovery needed | Gums may feel sore; healing time needed |
How Do You Know Which One You Need?
The only way to know for sure is to have your gums checked by a dentist near you.
They’ll use a tool to measure the spaces between your teeth and gums, which are called periodontal pockets. If these spaces are too deep, you may need a deep cleaning to stop the infection.
If your gums are healthy and your pockets are shallow, then a standard cleaning may be enough to keep your smile strong.
Why Quick Action Matters
Once gum disease starts, it doesn’t go away on its own. Delaying treatment can lead to more serious problems, including bone loss and tooth loss.
A trusted dental clinic in Courtenay can evaluate your gums and help you act before the damage becomes permanent.
Getting the right cleaning at the right time doesn’t just protect your teeth; it protects your entire smile.
Don’t Wait, Gum Damage Gets Worse Fast
Healthy gums protect your teeth, but when they’re inflamed or infected, they begin to pull away, creating deep pockets where bacteria thrive. What starts as bleeding gums can quickly become something much more serious.
At Acreview Dental and Comox Valley Implants, we help you understand exactly what’s going on in your mouth and guide you to the right treatment.
Don’t Let Bleeding Gums Go Ignored
Whether you need a regular cleaning or a deeper approach, our team is here to support your long-term dental health.
Book your consultation today and stop gum disease before it becomes irreversible.
