06/16/2026
A deep cleaning is not a “better” cleaning. It’s recommended when your gums are unhealthy enough that a regular cleaning may no longer be the right treatment.
How do we decide? We look at 3 main things:
1 Gum measurements
2 X-rays
3 The clinical exam
That means we’re checking for deeper pockets, bone loss, bleeding/inflammation, and tartar below the gumline. So if you’ve ever been told you need a deep cleaning and felt confused, ask to see your measurements and x-rays. You deserve to understand why treatment is being recommended.
PS deep cleanings may also be called “SRP” or “scaling and root planing” or “NSPT” or “non-surgical periodontal therapy” :)