Here's scale and polish vs deep clean explained!

There are many differences between a regular scale & polish and a deep clean. Understand more about these dental procedures and why your dentist is recommending one over the other. While both treatments aim to improve dental health, they differ in terms of depth, purpose, and the forms of gum disease they address. Understanding the distinction between a routine dental cleaning and a more intensive periodontal treatment can help you feel more confident about your dental care plan.

What is scaling and polishing?

A scale and polish or a regular dental cleaning is a professional teeth cleaning typically performed during a regular dental check-up. The primary goal is to maintain oral hygiene and prevent gum disease by removing surface-level bacterial plaque and tartar (calculus) buildup.

The procedure:

1. Routine scale involves the removal of plaque and tartar build-up from the tooth surfaces, especially near the gum line. Dentists use manual tools or ultrasonic scaling to break down and remove the buildup from teeth with plaque.
2. Polishing follows scaling and smooths the tooth surfaces using a brush that rotates in a circular motion and a special paste. This helps to gently buff away stains caused by food, beverages, and everyday wear, leaving the teeth feeling smooth and refreshed.
   

Who needs it?

• Individuals with good general oral health
• Patients who visit the dentist regularly ( usually every 6 months )
• Those with mild plaque or tartar buildup
• Those with normal gum pockets ( less than 4mm )

Benefits:

• Fresher breath
• Cleaner, smoother teeth
• Reduced risk of periodontal disease

A scale and polish is generally quick, painless, and can be completed in a single visit. It is a preventive treatment meant to keep the teeth and gums healthy.

Your dental professional may recommend to get a fluoride treatment after deep dental cleanings, as it aids in remineralising and strengthening the tooth enamel,l especially for patients who have sensitive teeth and who are at a higher risk of tooth decay. Fluoride treatment also helps reduce tooth sensitivity and alleviates discomfort associated with gum recession (exposed roots due to gums pulling away from the tooth).

What is a deep clean (scaling and root planing)?

A deep clean, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive treatment aimed at treating inflammation of the periodontal tissues or chronic periodontitis. It is a surgical procedure that goes below the gum tissue to remove tartar, dental plaque, and bacteria from the roots of the teeth.

The procedure:

1. Periodontal Scaling in this context teeth involves cleaning deep periodontal pockets between the teeth and gums, where bacteria thrive in hard-to-reach areas.
2. Root Planing smooths the rough surfaces to help the gums reattach and heal more effectively onto the root surface.
   
   

Who needs it?

• Patients diagnosed with advanced gum disease (periodontal disease)
• Individuals with signs such as bleeding gums, gum recession, plaque on teeth roots, or persistent bad breath
• Those with deep periodontal pockets and bone loss (more than 4mm)
  

Benefits:

• Stops progression of gum disease
• Reduces gum inflammation and bleeding
• Helps periodontal tissues reattach to the surfaces of teeth
• May prevent tooth loss
  
• Can help with counter pain

Deep cleaning include typically local anesthesia and may require multiple visits depending on the severity of the condition. It is a therapeutic procedure, not merely preventive.

Related articles:

• How scaling and polishing improves your dental health
• What is scaling and polishing

What are the key differences Between scale and polish vs deep clean?

Why deciding on the right treatment matters?

Understanding the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep clean is crucial because receiving the appropriate dental treatment can significantly affect your periodontal health and overall health. The cost of treatment, the treatment timeline, and number of scheduled treatment visits may also differ.

For example, treating gingival inflammation with a deep clean can prevent more serious complications such as tooth loss or systemic inflammation linked to heart disease and diabetes.

Some patients mistakenly assume that a scale and polish will resolve issues associated with gingivitis. However, without addressing the root cause (literally and figuratively), the condition can worsen. On the other hand, receiving a deep clean when it's not necessary may lead to discomfort and added expense.

What are the signs you may need a deep clean instead of a scale and polish?

If you're unsure which dental treatment is appropriate, consider the following signs that you may need a deep clean:

• Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or receding gums
• Loose teeth or changes in bite
• Noticeable tartar buildup below the gum line

A thorough examination by your dentist, often including periodontal probing and dental X-rays, will determine the right course of action.

What is the aftercare and maintenance like ?

Regardless of which procedure you receive, maintaining a good oral hygiene routine is key to maintaining results:

• Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste as per the dentist's oral hygiene instructions.
• Flossing or using interdental brushes
• Regular check-ups and cleanings as recommended
• Avoiding tobacco products and limiting sugary foods and drinks

After deep teeth cleaning, your dentist may also recommend more frequent dental appointments, antimicrobial mouth rinses, or follow-up periodontal therapy to ensure healing and prevent recurrence. In addition to traditional scaling, modern oral hygiene practices include comfortable methods like Air-flow therapy and Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT).

Conclusion

While both regular cleaning and deep cleanings are designed to improve oral health, they serve distinct roles. Scale and polish treatments are preventive and suitable for individuals with generally healthy gums, while deep cleaning teeth are essential for managing and treating signs of gum disease. Understanding these differences can empower you to take an active role in your dental care and work with your dental professional to achieve and maintain a healthy smile.

If you're unsure which professional cleaning is right for you, schedule a dental hygiene appointment with us. Our dental team can assess your gum health and recommend the most suitable approach based on your individual needs.