A dental cleaning helps remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot fully address, but not every cleaning serves the same purpose. Routine cleanings maintain healthy teeth and gums, while a deep cleaning may be recommended when signs of gum disease begin to appear.
At the Houston practice of Heather F. Fleschler, DDS, FAGD, LVIF, patients benefit from care backed by advanced training, including Dr. Fleschler’s General Practice Residency at the University of Texas-Houston Dental Branch. Determining the right type of dental cleaning starts with evaluating gum health, tartar buildup, and the depth of the spaces around the teeth.
What Happens During a Regular Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning, also called a prophylaxis, is intended for patients whose gums are generally healthy. A dental professional removes plaque and hardened tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and around the gumline before polishing the teeth.
Regular cleanings are typically part of ongoing preventive care and can help:
- Reduce plaque and tartar buildup
- Support healthy gums
- Lower the risk of cavities and gum disease
- Keep the teeth feeling clean and smooth
The recommended schedule can vary depending on a patient’s oral health needs.
When Is a Deep Cleaning Recommended?
A deep cleaning is different from routine preventive care. Also known as scaling and root planing, or periodontal therapy, it is generally recommended when an examination shows signs of gum disease, such as periodontal pockets, inflammation, bleeding, or tartar buildup extending below the gumline.
During treatment, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gums and carefully cleans and smooths the tooth roots. This treatment removes harmful buildup below the gumline and supports healthier gum tissue.
A deep cleaning is not simply a more thorough version of a regular cleaning. It is a treatment used when gum health has already begun to decline.
How Does a Dentist Decide Which Cleaning You Need?
The decision is based on an examination of the teeth and gums. The dentist may measure periodontal pocket depths, evaluate bleeding or inflammation, check for gum recession, and review dental X-rays for signs of bone loss.
Patients with healthy gums generally need routine cleanings, while those showing early or more established signs of gum disease may require scaling and root planing.
Choose the Right Dental Cleaning in Houston, TX
The right type of cleaning depends on the current condition of your gums, not just how long it has been since your last dental visit. Identifying gum disease early can help you address harmful buildup before periodontal problems become more advanced.
Contact Heather F. Fleschler, DDS, FAGD, LVIF in Houston, TX, at 713-660-6500 to schedule a consultation and determine the right dental cleaning for your oral health.
