Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Many patients assume all dental cleanings are the same. In reality, there are two main types—routine cleanings and deep cleanings. Understanding the difference helps you know what to expect and why your dentist may recommend one over the other.

What is a regular dental cleaning?

A regular cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a preventive dental service typically performed every six months. It involves:

• Removing plaque and tartar from above the gumline
• Polishing teeth to reduce staining
• Checking for early signs of decay or gum inflammation

This type of cleaning is recommended for patients with healthy gums who do not show signs of periodontal disease.

Learn more about our cleaning services here: Dental Cleaning and Examinations

What is a deep dental cleaning?

A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is used to treat active gum disease. This procedure targets plaque and bacteria beneath the gumline. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning if you have:

• Bleeding gums
• Receding gum tissue
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose teeth or deep periodontal pockets

Unlike a regular cleaning, a deep cleaning often requires local anesthetic and may be completed over multiple visits depending on severity.

Key differences between deep and regular cleanings

Feature	Regular Cleaning	Deep Cleaning
Purpose	Preventive maintenance	Gum disease treatment
Area treated	Above the gumline	Below the gumline
Visits required	One	Multiple (if needed)
Pain level	Minimal to none	May require numbing

Why early treatment matters

Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and is linked to health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Deep cleaning is a proven way to halt disease progression and restore gum health before more advanced treatments are needed.

Need a dental evaluation?

If you're unsure whether you need a deep cleaning or just a routine visit, a full evaluation with our dental team will help determine the best course of care. We provide gentle, personalized cleanings for patients at all stages of oral health.

Please request an appointment here: https://elitedentalregopark.com or call Elite Dental Rego Park at (718) 897-9745 for an appointment in our Rego Park office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Rego Park, NY.