Scale and Clean
What is teeth scaling and why is it required?
Scaling is a treatment that cleans teeth by removing food particles (which are present in the teeth as well as the gums), tartar, and external stains that are difficult to remove while brushing. Scaling is a routine procedure and it does not affect one’s teeth, in fact it cleans teeth and maintains dental hygiene.
No anaesthesia is required in this process. Calculus/tartar gets deposited between the teeth and the gums, which causes tooth problems and unhealthy gums over a period of time.
Hence scaling, by removing these deposits, helps to maintain healthy teeth.
What is Calculus/Tartar?
Plaque is sticky, soft, colourless deposit of food particles and bacteria on the teeth. Such bacteria multiply very fast and lead to gum infection and bleeding of the gums. Bacteria can be removed by brushing teeth, but after 11-14 hours without brushing these bacteria form calculus. Calculus cannot be removed by brushing and requires teeth scaling.
Myths About Teeth Scaling
People have some doubts or negative view about scaling. There are certain myths such:
- The gap between the gums and the teeth increases
- Teeth become weak and shaky
- Teeth become sensitive
There are a few scientific facts that contradict these myths:
Some feel that scaling results in gap between teeth, which is incorrect. The gap can be seen because the tartar between the teeth gets cleaned up in scaling. Some feel that teeth become shaky, but according to scientists the tartar itself has a negative impact on natural bonding/attachment of the teeth and the gums.
The teeth, which are already shaky, are in the grip of tartar and when scaling is done the teeth only seem shaky. When the tartar gets removed the area gets exposed which causes mild sensitivity, but that dissipates in 1-2 days. Hence the teeth become healthy after scaling.
What Instruments are Used for Scaling?
There are 2 types of instruments used i.e. hand held and ultrasonic instruments. Some dentists rely on a personal touch to identify tartar, plaque, and rough spots. They use curette/dental scales to remove the plaque manually.
Ultrasonic instruments have a metal tip that vibrates and chips off tartar, along with a water spray to wash away the tartar and keep the metal tip cool.
What Procedure is Adopted for Scaling?
Scaling removes calculus that accumulates on the teeth by cleaning the teeth below and above the gum line.
Various instruments are used for this purpose but an ultrasonic machine is used in most cases. It vibrates and has a fine tip which removes tartar from the surface of the teeth. This machine is completely safe and does not affect the tooth surface.
After scaling your dentist will see you to assess the improvement in your teeth. Dentists recommend cleaning your teeth every 6 months.
How Often is Scaling Required?
One should visit the dentist every six months. Your dentist can check your teeth and advise you if scaling is required or not. People who have dental plaque should go for scaling every 6 months.
Scale and Clean in Campbelltown
Keep a healthy smile for life by visiting regularly your Campbelltown dentist at A Plus Dental for routine check-ups and clean. At A Plus Dental, we are all about your health and happiness. We provide world-class care by using the latest techniques and advanced dental equipment.
Scale and Clean in Campbelltown
Call us at (02) 4627 3833 or simply book your appointment online.
