Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Dental Cleaning

We all know that as a part of maintaining strong dental health, it's important to schedule a professional dental cleaning at least twice per year. But while an in-office teeth cleaning is technically a "deep cleaning" of your teeth, there's another procedure that's specifically referred to as a "Deep Cleaning" – although it's different from a routine dental cleaning. At the office of Dr. Jeffrey H. Forrest, we're proud to help our patients maintain healthy smiles through comprehensive dental care, and today we'd like to shed some light on what qualifies a true "deep cleaning" of the teeth.

Scaling, Root Planing, & Periodontal Treatment

A regular in-office dental cleaning does provide a thorough cleaning of your teeth. However, a Deep Cleaning procedure – also commonly called scaling and root planing – is a separate dental procedure that's used to combat periodontal disease. And unlike a routine dental cleaning, scaling and root planing cleans not only the surface of the teeth, but the surface of the tooth roots that sit below the gums, as well.

When gum disease progresses from gingivitis to the more severe stage of periodontitis, it can form "pockets": crevasses the teeth and the top of the gums that reach more than 5 millimeters deep. This only occurs as a result of advanced periodontal disease, and lying beneath these crevices are often deposits of tartar and plaque on the teeth. Scaling and root planing is a procedure that involves our Livonia dentist using specialized tools to carefully clean these plaque deposits off the roots of the teeth, while also removing any damaged or decayed gum tissue. This helps to hit the "reset" button on gum health, and with continued, diligent oral hygiene, will allow the teeth and gums to heal and make sure your smile stays beautiful.

Contact Your Novi, MI Family Dentist

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, isn't a necessity for everyone, and we'll only use it if gum disease has progressed beyond a certain point. But if you have more questions about gum disease or think you might benefit from a deep cleaning, we're happy to help. Contact us today with any questions or to schedule a consultation for periodontal treatment. We can't wait to hear from you!