Why Deep Teeth Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing) is Expensive and the Difference Between Deep Cleaning and Regular Teeth Cleaning

Maintaining oral health is crucial for overall well-being, and regular visits to the dentist play a key role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. While many people are familiar with regular teeth cleaning, they may not understand the difference between this and a more comprehensive procedure known as scaling and root planing, or deep cleaning. In this blog, we will explore why deep cleaning is more expensive than regular cleaning and break down the differences between the two dental procedures.

Table of Contents

1. 1. What is Regular Teeth Cleaning?
   2. What is Deep Teeth Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
   3. Key Differences Between Regular Teeth Cleaning and Deep Cleaning
   4. Why is Deep Cleaning More Expensive?
      • Labor and Expertise Involved
      • Time and Precision
      • Advanced Tools and Techniques
      • Periodontal Expertise Required
   5. Benefits of Deep Cleaning
   6. When Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?
   7. How Often Should You Get a Regular Teeth Cleaning?
   8. Is Deep Cleaning Worth the Cost?
   9. Factors That Can Influence the Cost of Scaling and Root Planing
      • Severity of Gum Disease
      • Number of Dental Visits Needed
      • Geographic Location
      • Use of Anesthetics or Sedation
   10. What to Expect During a Deep Cleaning Procedure
   11. What Happens During a Regular Cleaning Appointment?
   12. FAQs About Deep Cleaning and Regular Teeth Cleaning
   • What is the cost of deep cleaning versus regular cleaning?
   • How painful is a deep cleaning?
   • Can regular cleaning prevent the need for deep cleaning?
   • How long does a deep cleaning take?
   • Does deep cleaning treat gum disease?
   • Is deep cleaning covered by dental insurance?
   13. Conclusion

   What is Regular Teeth Cleaning?

   Regular teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive dental procedure that involves the removal of plaque, tartar and superficial stains from the surface of your teeth. It is designed to maintain oral health by keeping your teeth and gums clean, and it is recommended for people with healthy gums and no significant buildup of plaque below the gumline.

   During a regular tooth cleaning, your dental hygienist typically:

   •    Uses specialized tools to remove plaque (a soft, sticky film of bacteria) and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surfaces of your teeth.
   •    Polishes the teeth to remove surface stains and smooth out the enamel, making it harder for bacteria to stick.
   •    Flosses between your teeth to remove any food particles and debris that brushing might have missed.
   •    Sometimes applies a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.

   Regular cleanings are usually recommended every six months for most people and are considered essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. However, regular cleanings only address the surface of the teeth and the area just below the gumline.

   What is Deep Teeth Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)?
   
   Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a more advanced procedure typically recommended for individuals who have periodontal disease (gum disease) or significant plaque buildup below the gumline. This procedure is more intensive because it aims to remove plaque and tartar from the roots of the teeth and reduce inflammation and infection in the gums.

   Scaling and root planing involves two main steps:

   1.    Scaling: The removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, especially in pockets that form when gums start to pull away from the teeth.
   2.    Root Planing: Smoothing out the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach to the teeth, which prevents bacteria from accumulating and causing further damage.

   Deep cleaning is necessary when gum disease has progressed to the point where regular cleaning is not sufficient. It is often performed under local anesthesia because the cleaning reaches deeper parts of the tooth and can be uncomfortable without numbing the area.

   Key Differences Between Regular Teeth Cleaning and Deep Cleaning

   The biggest difference between regular cleaning and deep cleaning is the focus of the procedure. Regular cleaning is a preventive measure, while deep cleaning is a treatment for gum disease and advanced plaque and tartar buildup below the gumline.

   Aspect

   Regular Cleaning

   Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

   Purpose

   Preventive cleaning to maintain oral health

   Treatment for gum disease and plaque under the gums

   Procedure

   Removes plaque and tartar above the gumline

   Removes plaque and tartar above and below the gums

   Involves Root Planing

   No

   Yes

   Use of Anesthesia

   No

   Often uses local anesthesia

   Frequency

   Every six months

   As needed, typically recommended for gum disease

   Time Required

   30-60 minutes

   1-2 hours, often split into multiple visits

   Cost

   Lower due to routine nature

   Higher due to labor intensity and expertise required

   Why is Deep Cleaning More Expensive?
   
   Deep cleaning is significantly more expensive than regular teeth cleaning, and this is due to several important factors:

   1. Labor and Expertise Involved
   
   Scaling and root planing require more expertise than regular cleaning. A dental hygienist or dentist must have advanced knowledge of periodontal disease and how to treat it effectively. The procedure involves more intricate work, which demands a higher skill set and more time from the dental professional.

   2. Time and Precision
   
   Deep cleaning is a longer process. In some cases, it is divided into two or more visits, particularly if multiple areas of the mouth are affected by gum disease. Each session can last an hour or more, depending on the severity of the condition, which directly increases the cost.

   3. Advanced Tools and Techniques
   
   Deep cleaning procedures utilize specialized tools and techniques, such as ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments designed to clean below the gumline. These tools are more advanced than those used in regular cleaning, and their use requires additional training. In some cases, local anesthesia is administered to minimize discomfort, which adds to the cost as well.

   4. Periodontal Expertise Required
   
   Deep cleaning is not just about cleaning; it is about treating gum disease. The dental professional must assess the extent of the disease and decide how best to address it. This requires additional expertise and experience, which is reflected in the price.

   Benefits of Deep Cleaning

   While deep cleaning may come with a higher price tag, its benefits are undeniable, particularly if you are dealing with gum disease. Here are some key advantages of scaling and root planing:

   •    Prevents Progression of Gum Disease: If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues. Deep cleaning helps to halt the disease in its tracks.
   •    Reduces Gum Inflammation: The procedure helps reduce the inflammation and swelling that occurs when gums are infected.
   •    Prevents Tooth Loss: By cleaning deep below the gumline, the procedure helps to prevent the progression of periodontal disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
   •    Improves Overall Oral Health: Deep cleaning removes harmful bacteria from below the gums, improving not just the health of your teeth and gums but also your overall oral health.

   When Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?
   

   You may need a deep cleaning if:

   •    You have periodontal disease or have been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis.
   •    Your gums bleed frequently when brushing or flossing.
   •    Your dentist notices significant plaque or tartar buildup below the gumline during an exam.
   •    You have deep pockets (4 mm or more) between your gums and teeth, where bacteria thrive and can cause infections.

   How Often Should You Get a Regular Teeth Cleaning?
   
   For most individuals, a regular teeth cleaning is recommended every six months. This helps maintain oral health, prevent cavities and stop gum disease from developing in the first place.

   Is Deep Cleaning Worth the Cost?

   Yes, deep cleaning is worth the cost, especially if you have gum disease. While it may seem expensive, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial expense. Failing to treat gum disease can result in much more costly and painful procedures down the road, including tooth extractions, gum surgery or even dental implants.

   FAQs About Deep Cleaning and Regular Teeth Cleaning
   
   What is the cost of deep cleaning versus regular cleaning?
   Regular cleanings usually cost between $75 to $200, depending on your location and dental office. Deep cleaning, on the other hand, can range from $300 to $900 per quadrant, with the total cost potentially reaching $1,500 or more depending on the severity of your gum disease.

   How painful is a deep cleaning?
   Deep cleaning can be uncomfortable, especially if you have sensitive gums or advanced gum disease. Dentists typically use local anesthesia to numb the area, minimizing pain during the procedure.

   Can regular cleaning prevent the need for deep cleaning?
   Yes, regular cleanings help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease and, ultimately, the need for deep cleaning.

   How long does a deep cleaning take?
   A deep cleaning appointment can last between 1-2 hours per session, and it may be split into multiple visits depending on the severity of the gum disease.

   Does deep cleaning treat gum disease?
   Yes, deep cleaning is specifically designed to treat gum disease by removing plaque and tartar below the gumline and promoting gum health.

   Is deep cleaning covered by dental insurance?
   Many dental insurance plans cover deep cleaning, though it is usually considered a treatment rather than preventive care, which may result in a higher co-pay or deductible.

   Conclusion
   
   In conclusion, deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a comprehensive procedure aimed at treating gum disease and maintaining oral health, while regular cleaning focuses on preventing problems before they arise. The higher cost of deep cleaning is justified by the specialized nature of the procedure, the expertise required and the long-term benefits it provides. Whether you are trying to maintain a healthy smile with regular cleanings or treat gum disease through deep cleaning, both procedures are essential for different aspects of oral care.

   Our dentists and team are pleased to provide scaling and root planing in Sherman Oaks, Encino, North Hollywood and Studio City, California, and the Los Angeles area. Dr. Cory Rabonza and associates invite you to call Healthy Smiles Dental Office at 818-788-3168 to set up your appointment or consultation!