The Essential Guide to Dental Scaling (Professional Oral hygiene): What You Need to Know
Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it's often overlooked until problems arise. Among various dental procedures to maintain oral hygiene, dental scaling stands out as a cornerstone treatment for preventing gum disease and ensuring the longevity of your teeth. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into what dental scaling is, why it's necessary, and what you can expect during the procedure.
Understanding Dental Scaling
Dental scaling is a common dental procedure aimed at removing plaque and tartar (also known as calculus) from the teeth and below the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. When plaque hardens on the teeth, it turns into tartar, a hard mineral deposit that can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing and requires professional dental cleaning.
Why is Dental Scaling Important?
The primary goal of dental scaling is to prevent gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions start when plaque builds up under the gumline, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If left untreated, they can lead to more severe issues, including tooth loss and infections that may spread to other parts of the body. By removing plaque and tartar, dental scaling helps keep the gums healthy and prevents the progression of gum diseases.
The Dental Scaling Procedure
Dental scaling is typically performed by a dentist or a dental hygienist using manual hand instruments, ultrasonic instruments, or a combination of both. The process includes:
Ultrasonic Scaling: This involves using a vibrating tool to remove large pieces of tartar. It sprays a cooling mist of water to wash away the debris and keep the area at a comfortable temperature.
Hand Scaling: After the larger pieces of tartar are removed, finer hand tools are used to remove smaller deposits and smooth the tooth surfaces.
Root Planing: This step may be performed along with scaling, especially if you have gum disease. It involves cleaning and smoothing the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach to the tooth surface.
AIRFLOW® technology: Comprehensive dental cleaning using the innovative AIRFLOW® technology for effective stain and plaque removal, restoring the natural brightness of your teeth.
Dental Polishing: to leave your teeth smooth and shiny, preventing future plaque accumulation.
The procedure is usually painless, but if you have sensitive teeth or gums, you might experience some discomfort. Your dentist can use a local anesthetic to numb the area and make the process more comfortable.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Following dental scaling, it's normal to experience some sensitivity and mild bleeding, but these symptoms should subside within a few days. To ensure the best results and prevent further issues:
Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.
Use an antiseptic mouthwash to help keep bacteria at bay.
Avoid smoking, as it can contribute to gum disease and slow the healing process.
Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings, typically every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.