Scale and Polish in Scackleton

A scale and polish in Scackleton is a common treatment designed to remove built-up plaque and tartar from the teeth. For many patients, a scale and polish is an integral part of a solid dental care routine to keep gum disease and tooth decay at bay.

Why do I need a scale and polish?

When consumed, the sugars in food and drink combine with plaque on the teeth to produce harmful acids. If the plaque isn’t cleaned away, it hardens into tartar -- a hard yellow or brown deposit. This in turn leads to tooth decay, cavities, and even gum disease, which can result in tooth loss. A scale and polish in Scackleton is used to remove plaque and thoroughly clean the teeth. It also smooths the surfaces of the teeth to prevent future bacterial build-up.

What does it involve?

1. Scaling
 

In the first part of the treatment, your dentist uses an ultrasound device emitting vibrations to dislodge large areas of tartar. At the same time, a cooling mist is sprayed over your teeth to wash away debris.

2. Air abrasion
 

Also known as “sandblasting”, air abrasion is used to whiten more severely stained teeth. Any healthy teeth that don’t require air abrasion will be protected by a dental dam. It involves using a machine that emits aluminum oxide particles in order to effectively remove plaque and tartar from the teeth.

3. Hand tools
 

Next, your dentist uses several hand tools (scalers and curettes) to eradicate smaller tartar deposits and smoothen out the surfaces of the teeth.

4. Polishing
 

Once your teeth are smooth, your dentist will polish them. A handpiece with a spinning, soft rubber cup is held against the teeth. The cup is filled with a gritty paste (called prophylaxis) and then spun over the teeth. This polishing technique results in smooth and shiny teeth.

5. Fluoride
 

As a final step, your dentist may apply fluoride to your teeth. Fluoride helps strengthen the teeth by providing essential minerals that have been previously depleted.

Is it painful?

Most patients find a scale and polish in Scackleton to be a painless treatment. They may feel only brief tickling and scraping at most. In some cases, pain may be caused by sore gums, worn teeth, or a heavy-handed dentist. However, local anaesthetic can be used to numb the area beforehand.

Are you considering a scale and polish in Scackleton? Use Dentists Near Me to find a great dentist and book your initial consultation today.