At Infiniti Dental Clinic, we often see patients for routine scale and polish treatments—a key component of maintaining optimal oral health. This procedure is integral to preventing dental issues and should be a foundational part of every patient’s ongoing care.
Conversely, a deep clean, also known as root planing, is a more advanced treatment designed for cases where gum health has been significantly compromised. While this procedure is effective in addressing serious periodontal issues, our primary aim is to help our patients avoid the need for intensive treatments through regular preventive care and thorough maintenance.
This blog will provide an in-depth look at both treatments, exploring their processes, benefits, and when they may be most appropriate. By understanding these procedures, you’ll gain valuable insight into their role in supporting your overall dental health and wellbeing.
What is a Scale and Polish?
A scale and polish is a professional teeth and gum cleaning procedure designed to remove plaque and tartar, which can’t be eliminated through brushing alone. Using specialised tools, such as the Ultrasonic device here at Benson Dental, stubborn deposits are gently removed from the teeth. This process is quick, comfortable, and completely pain-free, leaving your teeth looking and feeling healthier.
Why is a Scale and Polish Important?
The main culprit behind the need for this treatment is plaque. After brushing, a layer of proteins from your saliva forms on your teeth, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to stick. This bacteria can lead to cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath. Over time, the bacteria harden into tartar (also known as calculus), which is incredibly tough to remove without professional equipment.
Plaque and tartar often accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, especially if your brushing habits need improvement. If left untreated, this build-up can lead to tooth decay, bleeding gums, gum recession, or even costly dental procedures to repair the damage.
The Benefits of a Scale and Polish:
- Protects your teeth and gums from decay and disease.
- Prevents bad breath caused by unwanted bacteria.
- Helps maintain overall oral hygiene for a fresher, healthier smile.
Taking care of your teeth with regular brushing is essential, but sometimes you need a helping hand to ensure a clean, happy smile. That’s where a scale and polish comes in. Your teeth will thank you for it!
How is the Scale & Polish Procedure Carried Out?
- Removal of Hardened Deposits: The hygienist begins by scraping away the build-up of bacteria and minerals, known as tartar, from the surfaces of the teeth and along the gum line.
- Sonic Dental Tools: Any remaining build-up is then shattered and removed using a specialised sonic tool, ensuring the teeth and gums are thoroughly cleaned.
- High-Speed Cleaning: The final step involves polishing with a powerful high-speed brush, leaving your teeth smooth and meticulously clean.
Why is a Scale and Polish Important?
By removing hardened deposits, the surface of the teeth is smoothed, which makes it more challenging for bacteria to attach and accumulate. Additionally, smoother tooth surfaces are less likely to become stained. While aesthetics is not the primary goal of this procedure, many of our Wimbledon dental patients often notice an improvement in their smile, with teeth appearing whiter after cleaning.
Regular scale and polish sessions play a vital role in maintaining both oral health and confidence in your smile. If it has been more than six months since your last appointment, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule your next cleaning.
What to Expect from a Scale and Polish
A scale and polish is a simple yet highly effective professional cleaning treatment performed by your dentist or dental hygienist. Here’s what happens during the process:
Step 1: The Scale
The first part, often called the ‘scale,’ removes the build-up of plaque and tartar on your teeth. Initially, your hygienist may use an ultrasonic scaler to quickly dislodge the bulk of tartar. Any stubborn deposits are then meticulously removed using specialised, handheld instruments to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
Step 2: The Polish
Once your teeth are free of tartar, it’s time to polish them. Polishing not only brightens your teeth and removes surface stains but also smoothes out any minor imperfections or rough patches. This smoother surface is less likely to attract plaque, making it harder for plaque to build up in the future. Importantly, polishing is more than a cosmetic procedure; it helps maintain the health of your teeth.
How Often Should You Get a Scale and Polish?
Your dentist will recommend how often you should go for a scale and polish treatment, depending on your individual oral health needs. For some, routine visits every six months may be ideal, while others might require more frequent cleanings.
Remember
A scale and polish complements, but doesn’t replace, your daily oral health routine. Continue to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and maintain consistent flossing or interdental cleaning practices for optimal oral hygiene.
Should You See a Dental Hygienist?
Dentists and hygienists are qualified to perform a scale and polish treatment, but it’s generally advisable to schedule with a hygienist. Why? Hygienists typically have more time to dedicate to a thorough cleaning of your teeth, as dentists often have busier schedules.
Additionally, dental hygienists spend the majority of their day providing this specific treatment, ensuring they’ve mastered the technique. If your aim is to maintain clean and healthy teeth, choosing to see a hygienist is an excellent decision!
If you are looking for a dentist in Balham, we are nearby. Get in touch with Infiniti Dental Clinic today on 020 8542 2171 today!
