November 13, 2025
Confused about the difference between a regular teeth cleaning and a deep cleaning? You’re not alone. Many patients wonder which procedure they actually need. Let’s break down both treatments so you can understand what’s best for your oral health.
What Is a Regular Teeth Cleaning?
A regular teeth cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure that most people need every six months. During this appointment, your dental hygienist will:
- Remove plaque and tartar buildup above the gum line
- Polish your teeth to remove surface stains
- Floss between each tooth
- Apply fluoride treatment (if needed)
Regular cleanings typically take 30-45 minutes and are generally painless. They’re designed to prevent gum disease and cavities by keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
What Is a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic treatment for patients who have gum disease. This procedure goes beyond the gum line to treat infection and inflammation. It involves:
- Scaling: Removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line
- Root planing: Smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach to teeth
Deep cleanings usually require local anesthesia and may be split into multiple appointments. While they take longer than regular cleanings, they’re essential for treating periodontal disease.
How Do You Know Which One You Need?
Your dentist will determine which cleaning is right for you based on:
- Gum health: Healthy gums need regular cleanings; inflamed, bleeding gums may require deep cleaning
- Pocket depth: Gum pockets deeper than 3mm often indicate the need for deep cleaning
- Tartar buildup: Extensive buildup below the gum line requires deep cleaning
- Bone loss: X-rays showing bone loss around teeth suggest gum disease requiring deep cleaning
If you’ve been keeping up with regular six-month cleanings and practicing good oral hygiene, you’ll likely only need a standard cleaning. However, if it’s been years since your last dental visit or you’ve noticed bleeding gums, a deep cleaning may be necessary.
The Bottom Line
Regular cleanings maintain healthy teeth and gums, while deep cleanings treat existing gum disease. The good news? Getting deep cleaning when needed can restore your oral health and help you get back on track with regular preventive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does a deep cleaning hurt?
A: Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. You may experience some tenderness or sensitivity for a few days afterward, but this is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Q: How much does a deep cleaning cost compared to a regular cleaning?
A: Deep cleanings are more expensive because they’re more extensive and therapeutic. Regular cleanings typically cost $75-$200, while deep cleanings can range from $150-$350 per quadrant (section of your mouth). Most dental insurance plans cover preventive cleanings fully but may cover deep cleanings at 50-80% if deemed medically necessary.
Q: Can I skip deep cleaning and just get regular cleanings instead?
A: No, you shouldn’t skip deep cleaning if your dentist recommends it. Gum disease won’t improve with regular cleanings alone because standard cleanings don’t address bacteria and tartar below the gum line. Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and has been linked to serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Deep cleaning is an investment in your overall health.
