TLDR;

A regular dental cleaning, or prophylaxis, removes plaque and tartar above the gumline to maintain healthy teeth and gums. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, removes plaque and tartar below the gumline and smooths tooth roots to treat gum disease. The main difference is prevention versus treatment.

Regular Dental Cleaning: Dental Prophylaxis

Definition and Purpose

A regular dental cleaning is a preventive procedure for patients with healthy gums. It removes soft and hardened plaque above the gumline to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Steps in a Regular Cleaning

• Dental exam to check for cavities and gum health

   

• Plaque and tartar removal with ultrasonic and hand scalers

   

• Polishing with a flavored paste

   

• Flossing between all teeth

   

• Fluoride treatment if needed

   

Recommended Frequency

Typically, adults with healthy gums are advised to schedule a dental cleaning every six months. This timeline supports early detection of issues and consistent plaque control. However, the recommended dental cleaning frequency may vary based on individual risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, or a history of gum disease.

At Buford Dentist, we tailor cleaning intervals to each patient’s unique oral health needs. While many benefit from a standard twice-yearly schedule, some patients, especially those prone to cavities or gum issues may require more frequent visits to maintain optimal oral health.

Deep Dental Cleaning: Scaling and Root Planing

Definition

Deep cleaning is a therapeutic treatment for gum disease. It targets bacteria, plaque, and tartar below the gumline. The root surfaces are smoothed to help the gums heal and reattach.

Signs You Might Need It

• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Gum swelling or redness
• Receding gums
• Periodontal pockets of 4 mm or more
• Bone loss visible on X-rays

Procedure Steps

• Numbing with local anesthesia
• Scaling to remove deposits below the gumline
• Root planing to smooth tooth roots
• Possible application of antimicrobial medication

Sessions and Duration

• Often done in two appointments, each covering half the mouth
• Each visit typically lasts 60–120 minutes

How Dentists Decide on Deep Cleaning

Exam Findings That Lead to SRP

• Periodontal probing showing pockets 4 mm or deeper
• Bleeding on probing in multiple areas
• Tartar visible under the gumline
• Bone loss on dental X-rays

Medical Risk Factors

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Immune system conditions

Pain, Numbing, and Recovery Timeline

Comfort During Treatment

• Regular cleaning rarely needs numbing
• Deep cleaning often uses local anesthesia for comfort

Recovery Steps

• Mild tenderness for 1–3 days
• Eat soft foods for the first day
• Rinse with warm salt water or chlorhexidine if prescribed
• Continue gentle brushing and flossing

When to Contact Your Dentist

• Swelling that increases after two days
• Persistent bleeding
• Fever or signs of infection

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Prophylaxis Coverage

• Usually covered twice a year under preventive benefits
• Minimal or no out-of-pocket cost for insured patients

Deep Cleaning Coverage

• Often requires proof of gum disease
• Insurance may cover part or all, depending on the plan
• Codes: D4341 for four or more teeth per quadrant, D4342 for fewer teeth

Out-of-Pocket Variables

• Number of quadrants treated
• Anesthesia use
• Additional medication costs

Risks and When Deep Cleaning Isn’t Enough

Possible Side Effects

• Temporary tooth sensitivity
• Minor gum recession
• Rare infection risk

When to Escalate Care

• Persistent deep pockets after treatment
• Need for periodontal surgery
• Referral to a periodontist for advanced care

Aftercare and Periodontal Maintenance

At-Home Care

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss daily
• Consider an interdental brush or water flosser for deeper cleaning

Professional Follow-Up

• Patients treated for gum disease typically need cleaning every 3 months
• Healthy patients usually return to 6-month intervals

Myths and Misconceptions

• Deep cleaning is not the same as a more thorough regular cleaning; it treats disease below the gumline
• It does not cause gums to recede; recession may reveal damage already present
• You will not always need deep cleanings if your gum health is maintained

Advances in dental diagnostics may make cleaning schedules more personalized. Saliva testing, genetic markers, and advanced imaging could help determine risk levels more accurately.

Georgia-Specific FAQ

Do Georgia Dental Plans Cover Deep Cleaning?

Many plans cover deep cleaning if there is documented gum disease. Always confirm with your provider.

How Long Are Visits at Buford Dentist?

Regular cleaning: about 45 minutes
Deep cleaning: 60–120 minutes, sometimes over two visits

Can My General Dentist Do Scaling and Root Planing?

Yes, many general dentists in Georgia, including Buford Dentist, perform SRP. Advanced cases may be referred to a periodontist.