What is dental scaling?
Dental scaling is a cleaning and removal method for plaque and calculus deposits on the tooth surfaces. This procedure is performed by dentists using specialized instruments. Dental scaling can be used as one of the treatment steps in the management of gum diseases and to create cleanliness and oral health. Cleaning the teeth and removing plaque and calculus accumulations around them can help prevent dental and gum diseases and contribute to maintaining oral health.
Benefits of Dental Scaling
Dental scaling as a hygienic and therapeutic process has some benefits and advantages. Some of these benefits include:
Prevention of Oral and Dental Diseases: Dental scaling can help reduce the risk of developing oral and dental diseases, including tooth decay, gum diseases, and oral infections.
Maintaining Gum Health: Dental scaling, by removing the plaque and calculus deposits around the teeth, can help maintain gum health. Plaque and calculus buildup can cause gum inflammation and bleeding, which can ultimately lead to gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
Improved Appearance of Teeth: Restoring the natural color and shine of the teeth is one of the outcomes of dental scaling. This process can remove stains, brown stains, and cigarette stains from the tooth surfaces, giving the teeth a healthy and attractive appearance.
Improved Oral Function: By eliminating plaque and calculus deposits, your mouth can function better. This process can help improve bad breath, reduce gum bleeding, and enhance the taste of foods.
Prevention of Dental Problems: By having clean and healthy teeth, you can prevent dental problems such as tooth decay, tooth fractures, and oral infections.
It is important to get dental scaling done regularly and as recommended by your dentist to fully benefit from it.
How is dental scaling done?
For dental scaling, the dentist uses specialized and soft tools such as scalers, ultrasonic instruments, files, and special brushes. These tools act on the tooth surfaces according to the need and condition of the plaque and calculus.
Some tools are used manually (like scalers) and others use mechanical forces such as ultrasonic or water flow. These tools are moved by the dentist’s hand to remove plaque and calculus from the tooth surfaces.
This process is typically therapeutic and can help reduce inflammation and improve oral health in any type of gum disease.
How often do we need to be penalized?
It is recommended to have your teeth scaled at least twice a year. However, to determine the exact frequency of scaling, it is best to consult your dentist. Based on the condition of your teeth and gums, your oral health history, and other relevant factors, your dentist can determine the best scaling regimen for you.
Additionally, if you have risk factors such as a history of gum disease or increased plaque buildup, you may need more frequent scaling. Therefore, it is important to consult your dentist to establish an appropriate scaling schedule.
Alternatively, you can contact the experienced dentists at the Dental Land clinic
Disadvantages of dental scaling
Dental scaling is an effective method for maintaining oral and dental health, but it may also have some disadvantages and problems. Some of these disadvantages are:
Sensitivity after scaling: After dental scaling, the teeth and gums may become more sensitive. This sensitivity is usually temporary and generally improves within a few days to a week.
Gum bleeding: If the dentist injures the gums or applies excessive pressure during dental scaling, the gums may bleed. This bleeding is usually controlled immediately after scaling and generally does not require any special treatment.
Risk of damage to gums and soft tissues: If dental scaling is performed by someone who lacks sufficient experience or does not use appropriate tools, the soft tissues of the mouth and gums may be damaged. Therefore, choosing a skilled and experienced dentist to perform the scaling is very important.
Cost: The cost of dental scaling may not be affordable for some individuals, especially if they are undergoing treatment for gum diseases or other dental problems. Additionally, the costs may vary depending on the location and the dentist’s expertise.
If you have any concerns or questions about dental scaling, it is best to consult your dentist. They can explain whether dental scaling is suitable for you and provide the necessary advice in this regard.
How is dental plaque formed؟
The process of dental plaque formation is as follows:
Plaque formation: Initially, a thin layer of bacteria and food debris forms on the tooth surface. This layer, known as dental plaque, accumulates on the teeth and in the spaces between them.
Mineralization: Over time, the dental plaque binds to minerals such as calcium and phosphate in the mouth and becomes dental calculus (tartar). This process is called mineralization.
Formation of dental stains: Dental calculus can lead to the formation of dental stains due to staining by external factors such as coffee, tea, smoking, and other substances. These stains can gradually grow on the tooth surface and affect the aesthetic appearance of the teeth.
To prevent the formation of dental calculus, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene regularly. This includes brushing twice a day for two minutes, using dental floss, and visiting the dentist regularly for periodic cleaning. Additionally, limiting the consumption of foods and beverages that can discolor the teeth is also recommended.
Home Dental Scaling
Home dental scaling is a method used to clean and remove stains and dental deposits. This method can be performed either mechanically or chemically.
The methods of home dental scaling are:
Electric toothbrushes: These types of toothbrushes have a rotating head that moves mechanically on the tooth surface to remove deposits and stains. Some electric toothbrushes also have the ability to provide sonic pulses that help with better cleaning.
Manual toothbrushes: These types of toothbrushes also move mechanically on the tooth surface. Proper use of a manual toothbrush can help remove deposits and stains.
Dental scaling pastes: Some dental scaling pastes and gels are available that can chemically remove deposits. Some of these products contain hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate. It is better to get advice from your dentist before using these products.
In any case, to better maintain oral and dental health, it is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes and rinse with water after each meal. Also, regular visits to the dentist for cleaning and periodic check-ups are very important.
For dental scaling consultation, please contact Dental Land physicians and the contact number: 02191551215.