Part Two: Preventive vs Deep Cleaning – Maintaining Healthy Gums
After learning in Part One why healthy gums are so important, the next step is understanding how to keep them healthy. At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we see the difference regular care makes. In this article, we’ll explain the difference between preventive teeth cleaning and deep cleaning for gum disease, and when each is needed.
Preventive Cleaning – The Basics of Routine Care
Preventive cleaning, sometimes called a regular dental cleaning, is designed for patients with healthy gums. During a routine cleaning at your Brisbane CBD dentist, our dental team:
Removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and along the gumline.
Polishes teeth for a smooth, clean surface.
Checks for early signs of gum disease, decay, or oral health issues.
Offers personalised advice for home care, including brushing and flossing techniques.
For most patients, preventive cleaning is recommended every six months, but your dentist may suggest a different schedule depending on your oral health.
Deep Cleaning – Treating Gum Disease
If gum disease has developed, a deeper cleaning is required to stop the problem from progressing. Deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, involves:
Removing plaque and tartar below the gumline.
Smoothing the roots of teeth so gums can reattach.
Treating infected gum pockets to reduce inflammation.
Providing ongoing periodontal maintenance to keep gums healthy.
Deep cleaning is usually done over multiple visits and may be recommended for patients showing signs of periodontitis, such as bleeding, gum recession, or deep pockets.
Which Cleaning Do You Need?
At our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic, we assess each patient individually. Your dentist will:
Measure gum pocket depth and check for bleeding or inflammation.
Consider your oral hygiene routine, medical history, and risk factors.
Recommend either preventive cleaning or deep cleaning, tailored to your needs.
Even patients who have had deep cleaning will continue to benefit from regular preventive cleanings to maintain gum health.
Special Areas That Need Extra Care
Certain areas are harder to clean and require professional attention:
Around dental implants, bridges, or crowns.
Near veneers or cosmetic dental work.
Back molars and tight spaces that are easy to miss at home.
By addressing these areas, your dentist ensures healthy gums and a strong foundation for your teeth, while protecting cosmetic or restorative work.
Sedation Options for Anxious Patients
For patients who feel nervous about deep cleaning, sedation can make the experience more comfortable:
Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for mild anxiety.
IV sedation for more extensive treatments or higher anxiety levels.
Our team at our Brisbane CBD dentist clinic ensures all sedation options are safe and monitored by trained professionals.
Next Steps
Maintaining healthy gums is about more than just brushing at home. If you haven’t had a teeth cleaning in Brisbane CBD recently—or if you’re experiencing bleeding gums—it’s time to book a consultation with your Brisbane CBD dentist.
📞 Call us on (07) 32111155 or
💻 Book online here
In Part Three of our series, we’ll focus on maintaining implants, bridges, veneers, and cosmetic dental work during professional cleanings.
