Types of Dental Cleanings: Which One is Right for You?

Think All Dental Cleanings Are the Same? Think Again!

You brush, you floss, and you visit the dentist regularly—but did you know there are different types of dental cleanings depending on your oral health?

Some patients only need a routine cleaning, while others require a deep cleaning to fight gum disease. Understanding the differences helps ensure you get the right care for your smile.

Let’s break down the 4 main types of dental cleanings, when they’re needed, and what to expect during your appointment.

🦷 Why Are Professional Dental Cleanings So Important?

Even if you brush and floss daily, plaque and tartar still build up over time. Professional cleanings:

✔ Remove hardened tartar (calculus) that can’t be removed at home
✔ Prevent cavities and gum disease
✔ Keep your breath fresh and clean
✔ Catch early signs of oral health problems

💡 Skipping cleanings can lead to gum disease, infections, and even tooth loss. Prevention is key!

🔍 4 Types of Dental Cleanings (And Who Needs Them)

1. Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis Cleaning)

Best for: Patients with healthy gums and no signs of gum disease.

A prophylaxis cleaning is a standard preventive cleaning done every 6 months to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains.

✔ What It Includes:

• Plaque & tartar removal (above the gumline)
• Teeth polishing for a bright smile
• Flossing & fluoride treatment (optional)

🔹 Recommended: Every 6 months for most people.

2. Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)

Best for: Patients with early-stage gum disease (gingivitis or mild periodontitis).

If plaque and bacteria build up below the gumline, they can cause gum inflammation and infection. A deep cleaning goes further than a routine cleaning by treating both the teeth and gums.

✔ What It Includes:

• Scaling (removing plaque/tartar from above & below the gumline)
• Root planing (smoothing the roots to help gums reattach)
• Possible antibiotic treatment to fight infection

🔹 Recommended: If you have gum inflammation, bleeding gums, or early gum disease.

3. Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning

Best for: Patients with moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis).

If you’ve been diagnosed with advanced gum disease, you’ll need more frequent cleanings to prevent further damage.

✔ What It Includes:

• Deep cleaning of pockets around teeth
• Bacteria and plaque removal below the gumline
• Gum disease monitoring and treatment

🔹 Recommended: Every 3-4 months for patients with a history of gum disease.

4. Gross Debridement Cleaning (Heavy Plaque & Tartar Removal)

Best for: Patients who haven’t had a cleaning in years and have significant tartar buildup.

If it’s been a long time since your last dental visit, plaque and tartar may have hardened to the point where a standard cleaning isn’t enough. A gross debridement cleaning is done before a routine or deep cleaning to remove heavy buildup.

✔ What It Includes:

• Removal of thick plaque and tartar layers
• Assessment of gum health
• Prepares teeth for a follow-up cleaning

🔹 Recommended: If you haven’t had a cleaning in 2+ years or have severe plaque buildup.

⚖️ How Do I Know Which Cleaning I Need?

Cleaning Type

Best For

How Often?

Routine Cleaning

Healthy gums & teeth

Every 6 months

Deep Cleaning

Early gum disease (gingivitis)

As recommended

Periodontal Maintenance

Severe gum disease

Every 3-4 months

Gross Debridement

Heavy tartar buildup

Before a full cleaning

👉 Not sure? Your dentist will examine your gums and recommend the right cleaning for your needs.

🚀 What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Step 1: Exam & Assessment

✔ The dentist or hygienist checks for plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.

Step 2: Plaque & Tartar Removal

✔ Using special tools, plaque and hardened tartar are removed above and below the gumline.

Step 3: Teeth Polishing

✔ A high-powered brush removes surface stains, making your teeth shine!

Step 4: Flossing & Rinse

✔ Removes any leftover plaque or toothpaste.

Step 5: Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

✔ Strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.

💡 A standard cleaning takes about 30-60 minutes. Deep cleanings may take longer.

🛡️ How to Maintain a Clean, Healthy Smile

To keep your teeth and gums in top shape between dental visits, follow these simple habits:

✔ Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
✔ Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
✔ Use mouthwash to kill bacteria
✔ Drink plenty of water to wash away food particles
✔ Avoid sugary & acidic foods that damage enamel

📅 And most importantly—schedule your cleanings every 6 months!

🦷 Why Choose Restoration Dental for Your Cleanings?

At Restoration Dental in Clermont, FL, we offer:
✅ Gentle, pain-free cleanings for all patients
✅ Advanced technology for deep cleanings & gum disease treatment
✅ Personalized care plans for your unique dental needs
✅ Affordable payment options & insurance-friendly services

📅 Need a dental cleaning? Book an appointment today! Call (352) 989-5815 or schedule online.

🤔 FAQs About Dental Cleanings

1. Does a deep cleaning hurt?

You may feel mild discomfort, but numbing gel or anesthesia can be used for sensitive patients.

2. How often should I get a deep cleaning?

Only as recommended by your dentist—usually every few years if you have early gum disease.

3. Can I eat after a cleaning?

Yes, but avoid sticky, crunchy, or staining foods for a few hours.

4. What happens if I skip dental cleanings?

Plaque hardens into tartar, leading to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath.

5. Are dental cleanings covered by insurance?

Most dental plans fully cover routine cleanings every 6 months. Deep cleanings may have