A deep cleaning is also known as scaling and root planning. Scaling involves removing tarter and bacteria from the root of the tooth. This procedure is required as a treatment for periodontal disease or some times called gum disease. A regular teeth cleaning is only recommended for patients who have generally good oral health and do not suffer from bone loss or gum issues. Regular cleanings are above the gum line and deep cleanings remove hard calculus/tarter below the gum line.