What’s the Difference Between Dental Cleaning and Scaling?

Keeping your smile healthy starts with understanding the different types of care your dentist provides. While dental cleaning and scaling may sound similar, these treatments serve very different purposes in maintaining and restoring your oral health. Knowing how they differ can help you feel more confident and informed at your next appointment.
 

What Is a Dental Cleaning?

A dental cleaning, also called prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure performed during your regular checkup. Its main purpose is to keep the teeth and gums healthy by removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains.

During a dental cleaning, your hygienist will:

• Gently remove plaque and tartar above the gumline

• Polish your teeth to smooth the surfaces and remove minor stains

• Floss to clear debris between your teeth

• Check for signs of cavities or gum disease

Regular cleanings are recommended every six months and are essential for preventing tooth decay, gum irritation, and tartar buildup.
 

What Is Dental Scaling?

Dental scaling is a deeper, more advanced cleaning used to treat gum disease, especially when pockets of bacteria form below the gumline. This procedure is part of what’s known as scaling and root planing.

During scaling, your dental professional:

• Removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline

• Cleans the roots of the teeth to eliminate bacteria

• Smooths the root surfaces to help gums reattach and heal

Scaling is typically recommended for patients with gingivitis or periodontitis, where tartar has accumulated in areas that a regular cleaning cannot reach.
 

Key Differences Between Dental Cleaning and Scaling

Dental cleanings are preventive in nature and are designed to maintain good oral health. They focus on removing plaque and tartar above the gumline and are typically performed during routine checkups. Cleanings are quick, comfortable, and help prevent future dental problems such as cavities and gum inflammation.

Dental scaling, on the other hand, is a more advanced treatment recommended when gum disease is present. Unlike a routine cleaning, scaling targets the areas below the gumline, where bacteria and tartar can accumulate and cause infection. Because it is more extensive, it may require local anesthesia to ensure comfort. While a dental cleaning helps keep your mouth healthy, scaling is used to treat existing gum disease and stop it from progressing.
 

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile at Midtown Dental Center

Both dental cleanings and scaling play essential roles in protecting your smile, but they serve different purposes. Regular dental cleanings help you stay ahead of dental problems, while dental scaling treats gum disease and restores gum health. Seeing your dentist regularly ensures any issues are caught early and treated effectively.

Schedule your dental cleaning or scaling appointment with Midtown Dental Center today. Visit our office in Atlanta, Georgia, or call (404) 874-0800 today.