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Teeth Scaling & Polishing

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Professional Deep Teeth Cleaning: Scaling and Polishing 

Research has shown there could be a link between oral dental disease and other health issues like diabetes, CVD, and CAD, as well as preterm and low-birth-weight babies. 

Researchers have started to understand that a healthy mouth is an important part of leading a healthy life. Professional teeth cleaning is an important part of maintaining your oral health and wellness. This should be done once or twice a year, depending on the condition of your teeth. 

Through regular scaling and root planning, we can remove plaque, calculus, and bacterial toxins from tooth surfaces below the gum line. 

YOUR DENTAL HYGIENE & YOU 

  • Maintain good oral hygiene. 
  • Brush and floss regularly. 
  • Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid excess sugar. 
  • Quit smoking. 
  • Check your gums. See if your gums are red, shiny, puffy, sore, or sensitive; see if there is any bleeding when you brush and floss; is there bad breath that won’t go away? If any of the above symptoms are present, consult the best dentist in Jaipur at Dr. Renu Dental Clinic, Nirman Nagar, Jaipur. 
  • Consult your dentist, Dr. Renu Chaudhary, every 6 months.
  • Her regular check-ups and professional cleanings help you avoid problems and extra expenses later on. It also says, Consult your dentist; do not wait until it hurts. 

What IS SCALING AND polishing?

Scaling and polishing, also known as dental prophylaxis, are aimed at maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental issues.

  • Scaling: During scaling, we use ultrasonic scalers to remove plaque, tartar (also known as dental calculus), and stains from the surfaces of the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that builds up on teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly. When plaque remains on the teeth for an extended period, it can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone.
  • Polishing: After scaling, the dental professional polishes the teeth. That helps to remove surface stains, making the teeth smoother and more resistant to plaque accumulation. Polishing also gives the teeth a cleaner and brighter appearance.

 

The primary goals of scaling and polishing are:

  • To remove plaque, tartar, and stains that cannot be effectively removed through regular brushing and flossing.
  • To prevent the progression of gum disease by eliminating the bacteria and irritants present in the plaque and tartar.
  • To improve the overall oral health and hygiene of the patient.
  • To create a smooth surface on the teeth, making it more challenging for plaque to adhere and accumulate.

WHY IS SCALING AND POLISHING REQUIRED?

  • Removal of Plaque and Tartar: Despite regular brushing and flossing, some areas of the mouth can be challenging to clean thoroughly. Over time, plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, food particles, and saliva, can build up on the teeth. If not removed, plaque can harden into tartar (dental calculus), which cannot be eliminated by brushing alone. Scaling is necessary to remove both plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

 

  • Prevention of Gum Disease: Gum disease (periodontal disease) is a common oral health problem that starts with the inflammation of the gums caused by the bacteria in plaque. As gum disease progresses, it can lead to more severe issues, such as gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. Regular scaling helps to prevent and control gum disease by removing the bacteria and irritants that contribute to its development.

 

  • Maintenance of Healthy Gums: Scaling and polishing not only remove harmful substances from the teeth but also clean along the gum line, which is crucial for gum health. Healthy gums are essential to supporting the teeth and maintaining their stability.

 

  • Fresher Breath: Bacteria in plaque and tartar can produce foul-smelling compounds, leading to bad breath (halitosis). By removing the bacterial buildup during scaling and polishing, it can significantly improve breath odour.

 

  • Brighter and Cleaner Teeth: Polishing the teeth after scaling helps to remove surface stains caused by factors like coffee, tea, tobacco, and certain foods. This process leaves the teeth smoother and gives them a cleaner, brighter appearance.

 

  • Early Detection of Dental Issues: During the scaling and polishing process, dental professionals can closely examine your mouth and identify potential dental problems, such as cavities, signs of gum disease, or other oral abnormalities. Early detection allows for prompt treatment, preventing further complications.

 

  • Overall Oral Health Maintenance: Scaling and polishing are vital components of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine. Along with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, scaling and polishing contribute to maintaining optimal oral health.

What ARE THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT DOING SCALING AND POLISHING?

  • Accumulation of Plaque and Tartar: Over time, if not removed, plaque can harden into tartar (dental calculus), which is more challenging to remove and requires professional dental intervention.

 

  • Increased Risk of Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar harbour harmful bacteria that can irritate and inflame the gums. The longer these substances remain on the teeth, the higher the risk of developing gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Gum disease can cause symptoms like gum bleeding, swelling, and tenderness and, if left untreated, can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss.

 

  • Dental Cavities: Plaque contains acid-producing bacteria that attack tooth enamel, leading to the formation of dental cavities. Regular scaling and polishing help prevent the accumulation of plaque and reduce the risk of cavities.

 

  • Bad Breath (Halitosis): The bacteria in plaque and tartar can produce foul-smelling compounds, resulting in bad breath. Removing the bacterial buildup through scaling and polishing can significantly improve breath odour.

 

  • Stained and Discoloured Teeth: Over time, certain foods and beverages, as well as lifestyle habits like smoking, can cause teeth staining. Scaling and polishing help remove surface stains, restoring a brighter and cleaner appearance to the teeth.

 

  • Weakening of Tooth Support: Advanced gum disease can lead to the destruction of the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth. This weakening of tooth support can eventually lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss.

 

  • Difficulty in Cleaning Teeth: When plaque and tartar accumulate on the teeth, it becomes harder to clean them effectively at home. This creates a cycle of worsening oral health and increased susceptibility to dental issues.

 

  • Impact on Overall Health: Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Neglecting scaling and polishing can contribute to these overall health risks.

SCALING AND POLISHING CAUSE ANY HARM?

Overall, scaling and polishing are safe and beneficial. However, in some rare cases, there may be potential risks or side effects associated with it. It's important to note that these risks are minimal and generally outweighed by the benefits of the procedure. 

  • Sensitivity: After scaling, some individuals may experience temporary tooth sensitivity, especially if they have gum recession or exposed tooth roots. The sensitivity usually subsides within a few days; follow your dentist's recommendations to manage it.

 

  • Gum Irritation: During scaling, the gums may become slightly irritated or sore due to the removal of plaque and tartar. This is usually mild and should resolve quickly.

 

  • Abrasion of Tooth Enamel: If polishing is done excessively or aggressively, it could lead to slight enamel wear over time. However, modern dental polishing pastes are designed to be gentle and safe for tooth enamel.

 

  • Discomfort During Procedure: Some individuals may find the scaling procedure uncomfortable, especially if they have sensitive teeth or gum disease. However, local anesthesia can be used to numb the area if needed.
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COST OF SCALING AND POLISHING IN Jaipur

  • The cost of scaling and polishing can vary depending on several factors, including the experience of the dentist, and the extent of the treatment needed.

 

  • Keep in mind that dental health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings, including scaling and polishing, can help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental issues in the long run.

COMMONLY ASKED SCALING AND POLISHING QUESTIONS

Q 1: What are scaling and polishing?

Scaling and polishing, known as dental prophylaxis. It involves two main steps: scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from the teeth, and polishing, which smooths the tooth surfaces and removes surface stains.

Q 2: Is scaling and polishing painful?

Scaling and polishing are generally not painful. However, some individuals may experience slight sensitivity or discomfort, especially if they have sensitive teeth or gum disease. In such cases, the dental professional can use local anaesthesia to numb the area for a more comfortable experience.

Q 3: How often should I get scaling and polishing done?

For most people, it is recommended to have a dental check-up and cleaning, including scaling and polishing, every six months. However, some individuals may need more frequent cleanings if they are prone to plaque buildup or have specific risk factors for gum disease.

Q 4: Can scaling and polishing damage tooth enamel?

When performed by a trained dental professional using appropriate techniques and tools, scaling and polishing should not damage tooth enamel. 

Q 5: Can scaling and polishing whiten my teeth?

Scaling and polishing can help improve the appearance of your teeth by removing surface stains, giving them a cleaner and brighter look. However, it is not a teeth whitening procedure that can dramatically lighten the colour of your teeth. If you're looking for significant teeth whitening, you may need to consider professional teeth whitening treatments.

Q 6: How long does a scaling and polishing procedure take?

On average, the procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

Q 7: Is scaling and polishing covered by dental insurance?

It's essential to check with your dental insurance provider to understand your benefits.

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