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Understanding the Different Types of Dental Cleanings

Ray Mingo

April 17, 2025

Blog

Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health, but not all cleanings are the same. Depending on your oral condition and needs, your dentist may recommend different types of cleanings to prevent or treat issues like plaque buildup, gum disease, or inflammation. Understanding the differences can help you know what to expect and why certain treatments are necessary.

Prophylaxis Cleaning

Often referred to as a routine cleaning, a prophylaxis cleaning is the standard cleaning most people receive during their regular dental checkups. This type of cleaning is intended for individuals with generally healthy gums who maintain good oral hygiene. The hygienist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and polish them to remove surface stains. Prophylaxis is preventive in nature and is typically recommended every six months to help avoid more serious dental problems down the line.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

If you have symptoms of gum disease such as bleeding gums, deep gum pockets, or bone loss, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing. Also known as a deep cleaning, this procedure goes beyond the surface to clean below the gum line. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the tooth roots, while root planing smooths the root surfaces to help the gums reattach and heal. This type of cleaning is typically done in sections of the mouth and may require multiple visits. Local anesthesia is often used to ensure comfort during the process.

Gross Debridement Cleaning

A gross debridement cleaning is used for patients who haven’t had a professional cleaning in quite some time or who have significant plaque and tartar buildup. The goal is to remove large deposits of plaque and calculus that make it difficult for the dentist to perform a thorough examination. This cleaning is more intensive than a routine cleaning but may be followed up by a standard prophylaxis once the buildup has been removed and the teeth can be properly evaluated.

Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning

After receiving treatment for gum disease, such as scaling and root planing, patients often need ongoing periodontal maintenance to keep the condition from returning. This type of cleaning is performed more frequently than routine cleanings, often every three to four months. It involves cleaning both above and below the gum line, monitoring pocket depths, and removing any bacterial buildup that could trigger a recurrence of gum disease.

Which Cleaning Do You Need?

The type of dental cleaning you need depends on your current oral health and any conditions you may have. Routine exams and X-rays can help your dental team determine which cleaning is most appropriate. Even if your teeth feel fine, regular checkups are important for catching issues early and avoiding more intensive treatments later.

At The Dental Office Encino, we tailor every cleaning to meet your individual needs and help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Whether you’re due for a routine visit or need a more in-depth cleaning, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

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