What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?

A regular cleaning is preventive care for patients with generally healthy gums. It removes plaque and tartar from above and slightly below the gumline.

A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is used to treat gum disease. It cleans deeper below the gums and along the roots of the teeth where bacteria and tartar have collected.

A deep cleaning is a different procedure and may require more than one appointment.