When was the last time you had your teeth scaling and polishing done? Many people think brushing and flossing are enough to keep their teeth clean, but over time, plaque and tartar build up in areas that are hard to reach. That’s where professional teeth scaling and polishing come in! In this article, we’ll explain what it is, why it’s important, and what you can expect during the procedure.
Dental scaling and polishing procedures are aimed at maintaining optimal oral hygiene.
Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar deposits from the surfaces of your teeth, especially in areas that are hard to reach with regular brushing and flossing. This is done by ultrasonic scalers which uses vibration to break down these tartar buildups. These deposits, if left unchecked, can lead to gum line disease and tooth decay.
Teeth polishing, on the other hand, smoothens the teeth after scaling. This procedure helps remove surface stains and minor imperfections, leaving your teeth feeling clean and looking brighter. This polishing procedure is normally done where polishing paste and polishing cups are used to smoothen the teeth surface.
Other polishing techniques include air polishing systems, such as the Prophy-Jet instrument or the Airflow machine, which effectively remove stubborn and heavy stains and plaque using a combination of air, water, and fine powder particles. Additionally, our dental hygienists and dentists offer Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT), a comprehensive approach to plaque detection that involves applying a disclosing dye to identify areas of dental plaque accumulation. This process not only enhances plaque removal but also serves as an educational tool, helping patients identify areas where they need to improve their brushing and oral hygiene practices.
Together, these dental procedures play a critical role in preventing dental issues and ensuring your smile stays healthy.
Teeth scaling is an essential part of dental care because it targets the build-up of dental plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing cannot remove. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can only be eliminated through professional scaling.
Plaque forms when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars from food, producing acids that attack your tooth enamel. Over time, repeated acid exposure weakens the enamel, creating small holes known as cavities. If left untreated, the decay can spread deeper into the tooth, reaching the nerve and causing pain or infections. Plaque buildup along the gumline can also lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, and persistent bad breath. Keeping your teeth clean by brushing, flossing, and reducing sugary foods helps prevent these issues.
Teeth scaling and polishing helps to reach areas where traditional brush cleaning may struggle to get, such as the nooks and crannies of brackets and band. It also reduces the risk of tooth loss and other dental conditions and tooth decay. Regular teeth scaling ensures that your gums remain healthy and your teeth stay strong.
Teeth polishing offers several benefits beyond just aesthetics. While it does make your teeth look shiny and feel smooth, less likely to attract plaque and tartar build-up. Teeth polishing also helps remove minor stains caused by food, beverages, and tobacco. This can result in a noticeably brighter smile thus contributing to better oral hygiene.
The frequency of teeth scaling and polishing depends on your individual oral health needs. For most people, it is recommended to undergo these procedures every six months during a routine dental check-up. However, individuals with a higher risk of gum disease or excessive plaque build-up may require more frequent visit to the dentist.
No, professional scaling is safe and does not damage your enamel. It is designed to remove hardened plaque and tartar, which cannot be eliminated by brushing alone. Regular dental cleanings help prevent cavities and gum disease, keeping your teeth and gums healthy
Yes! In fact, scaling and polishing are even more important for people with braces because food particles and plaque can easily get trapped around the brackets, wires, and between the teeth. This buildup can lead to cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath if not properly cleaned.
Since braces make it harder to brush and floss effectively, your dentist will use special tools such as airflow or prophyjet spray to remove plaque and tartar from areas that are difficult to reach through air, water and powder. Regular professional cleanings help prevent gum disease and tooth decay, ensuring your teeth stay healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.
It is recommended to schedule scaling and polishing every 3 to 6 months while wearing braces to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent long-term dental issues. Your dentist may also provide additional tips on how to brush and floss effectively with braces.
Preparing for a teeth scaling and polishing appointment is straightforward. Make sure to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing, leading up to your visit. This will help your dentist get a clear view of any areas that need attention.
During the appointment, feel free to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your dentist. Contact us today to book a consultation! Remember, these appointments are a proactive step towards a healthier, brighter smile.