Regular Dental Cleaning vs Deep Cleanings

Dental cleanings are a key part of preventive dentistry procedures. They keep the teeth and gums clean, can help reverse certain diseases and prevent you from experiencing more complex dental problems. 

But, what's the difference between a regular dental cleaning and deep cleaning? 

Let's find out! 

Regular Cleanings

Regular teeth cleanings are important for keeping the teeth and gums healthy and strong. The procedure is non-invasive, and it aims to keep the teeth clean and help in keeping cavities and gum disease at bay. 

How Often Do You Need Them?

It is recommended that you do a regular cleaning every six months. This way, you can keep the teeth and gums free from bacteria, plaque, and tartar and avoid them accumulating even more. If you wait too long between cleanings, it will be a lot harder to remove and clean all the plaque and tartar.

What Do They Include?

Regular cleanings are usually done by dental hygienists after they've evaluated the entire mouth. After the evaluation, the hygienist starts cleaning the teeth and gum removing the plaque and tartar.

Are They Covered By Insurance?

Standard teeth cleaning is usually covered by insurance, including two regular cleanings per year. 

Deep Cleanings

Deep cleanings are a more extensive type of teeth cleaning and it's usually necessary to remove plaque and tartar that has advanced deeper into the gum line, and it is much harder to remove with just regular teeth cleaning. 

Deep cleanings might need more than a session to properly finish, especially if the patient suffers from gum disease. 

Why Do I Need a Deep Cleaning?

Deep teeth cleaning can reverse the first stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, preventing it from developing further and damaging both your gums and teeth. You need a deep cleaning when:

• After a teeth exam, your hygienist recommends you have a deep cleaning. With the help of your dentist, you can determine if it is better to get a deep cleaning, rather than regular cleaning. 

• You have symptoms like swollen and red gums, gums bleeding, or bad breath. 

• The tartar accumulated on the surface of the tooth is too hard to eliminate with regular cleaning.

• You have skipped regular cleaning 

How Often Should I Get a Deep Cleaning

It is recommended to have deep teeth cleaning at least once in your lifetime, but your dentist will be able to guide you best, depending on your oral health condition. 

Are Deep Cleanings Covered by Insurance?

Deep cleanings are not entirely covered by insurance and you would have to cover a part of the costs. Many people choose not to get one because they do not want to pay for a part of it, but deep teeth cleaning can save you from more expensive procedures.

A Beautiful and Healthy Smile with Bria Dental 

At Bria Dental, we offer preventive and restorative treatments and have the best and latest technology and techniques.

We would like to get to know you. Book an appointment with us and let’s get acquainted.