Dental Hygienist Cleaning
A dental hygienist cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a routine preventive procedure performed to maintain oral health.
It involves removing plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and along the gum line. The cleaning also includes polishing the teeth to remove stains and smooth the surface, making it more difficult for plaque to accumulate.
This type of cleaning is recommended every six months for patients with healthy gums.
Deep Cleaning
On the other hand, a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure used to treat periodontal disease.
This process involves cleaning beneath the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the pockets that form between the teeth and gums due to gum disease. The roots of the teeth are also smoothed to allow the gums to reattach and heal, reducing inflammation.
Deep cleanings are usually recommended for patients who show signs of periodontal disease, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or deep pockets around the teeth.
While routine cleanings are essential for preventing gum disease, deep cleanings are a critical treatment for halting the progression of periodontal disease and restoring gum health.