Many times in our dental office, patients have asked me if instead of doing a deep cleaning they could do a simple cleaning. They have even asked if they could sign an exemption stating that it will not hold the office responsible if we do a simple cleaning instead of a deep cleaning, when we recommend deep cleaning. There is a basic difference between regular cleaning (prophecy) and deep cleaning (scraping and root smoothing). Prophyy is performed when the patient has healthy gums or with people who have small amounts of plaque above the gums.
Scraping and root smoothing are done when there is plaque (bacteria and their waste products) and tartar (bacteria that hardened with minerals in saliva) deep in the gums. Regular cleaning, focusing on and above the gum line, can alter bacteria colonies and release them into the bloodstream and the rest of the body. Deep dental cleaning eliminates bacteria colonies from the mouth, while regular cleaning polishes teeth. The main difference between regular dental cleaning with a dentist and deep dental cleaning is that the first is not as extensive as the second.
Regular cleaning is done to maintain the cleanliness of the teeth to prevent tooth decay and prevent gum disease. The removed tartar has not completely invaded the gums and is removed with a scraper. However, when the buildup of tartar is excessive, it can only be removed by thorough dental cleaning by the dentist. Periodontal maintenance (deep cleaning) is very similar to regular cleanings, but it has its differences.
For one thing, you'll probably need these appointments more frequently; you'll have to come back every three or four months. While regular cleaning focuses more on the gumline to flake and polish the outer surface of the teeth, deep cleaning of the teeth involves removing bacterial colonies and tartar from the roots of the teeth. One thing to expect after a deep dental cleaning is a little sore gums and sensitivity to hot liquids and foods. If your gums are red and inflamed, it may indicate that you have an infection and need a thorough dental cleaning.
It's important to understand that there's really no comparison between deep dental cleaning and regular cleaning.