Scaling and polishing are like the Siamese twins of dental care. The two medical terms are often used together because they represent processes that are similar. They both involve removing stains and plaque accumulated on the teeth; those which regular brushing and flossing cannot remove. Professionally, teeth cleaning or dental cleaning is called Prophylaxis (or Prophy). Prophylaxis is a word of Greek origin and means to prevent beforehand, which is taken in this context as preventing gum disease.
Scaling
Over time, certain substances form naturally on the teeth. These substances are called plaque. They can accumulate to the point where brushing and flossing are not sufficient to effectively be rid of them. Scaling is the nonsurgical process of scraping off these hardened pieces of plaque and tartar that are stuck to your teeth. It is done using sharp stainless steel instruments called hand scalers.
Plaque normally adhere to the surface of the teeth, and are easy to remove by brushing and flossing. However, if plaque is left for a long time on the teeth without brushing them away, they absorb certain mineral substances (calcium and phosphorus) in the saliva and transform into a hard substance known as calculus or tartar. If the calculus is left on the teeth and not brushed away properly, new plaque starts forming on it, and the process repeats itself. It build up to a point at which it is impossible to remove by ordinary brushing and flossing. Hence, the need for scaling.
Polishing
Polishing goes hand in hand with scaling. It involves the use of prophylactic paste to remove remnant stains and smoothen the teeth. It’s usually done after the scaling process in order to make it hard for plaque and stains to attach to the tooth surface.
Why and when should I go for teeth scaling and polishing?
It is necessary to go for dental cleaning once in a while in order to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Food is first taken in the mouth before being passed to other parts of the body, so it is very easy for infections to spread from the mouth to other parts of the body. Which is why it is necessary to maintain good oral health and hygiene.
It is recommended that an individual goes for dental scaling and polishing at least once every six months. This may vary based on the oral condition of an individual. Also, when you notice your teeth getting darker or more yellowish, that is a distinct signal for you that it’s time to visit the dental clinic.
How Scaling and Polishing are done
Dental scaling and polishing are done with a variety of instruments in a progression. An ultrasonic instrument, then some Fine Hand tools and finally some Fluoride. These instruments are used by the dentist gently in order to avoid causing harm the teeth.
Many people may avoid dental cleanings because they think that scraping the teeth just isn’t good for them. However, in the hands of a skilled professional, there is no need to worry about damaging your teeth. Your enamel is the hardest substance in your body and actually dulls the stainless steel instruments used to do cleanings. Additionally, if your hygienist uses ultrasonic scalers to remove the hard deposits, then there is even less risk of damage.
Benefits
Scaling and polishing prevents tooth decay, as well as early tooth loss. It helps to maintain good breath and restores your smile and confidence. Especially if you have had to deal with extrinsic stains on your teeth (e.g. from cigarettes).
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