What is scaling and polishing of the teeth?

Dental calculus (tartar) is an adherent, calcified or calcifying mass that forms on the surfaces of teeth. Usually, it is tooth coloured and can easily be mistaken as part of the teeth, but it can also be present in brown, green or black colour depending upon the components present. If calculus is allowed to build up on the teeth it will provide the right conditions for bacteria to thrive beside the gums. 

 

Scaling or cleaning involves removal of calculus along with plaque (composed of a soft sticky layer of bacteria, food and saliva) and other extrinsic stains (tea/coffee/tobacco etc) on the teeth using an ultrasonic scaling equipment. Polishing evens out the cleaned surface making it smooth and resistant to further plaque deposition.

 

What are the benefits of scaling and polishing?

• Removal of calculus helps in preventing Periodontal diseases which are the main cause of gum recession, loose teeth and subsequently, tooth loss. 

• It also fights bad breath which is because of plaque and microorganisms on it.

Since the tooth surface is smooth after scaling and polishing it does not provide an environment for development of calculus by inhibition of bacterial adhesion to the smooth tooth surface. 

 

Does scaling and polishing whiten the teeth?

Extrinsic stains can make teeth look yellow or brownish. Once these are removed by scaling and polishing, teeth definitely appear whiter. 

 

What is the procedure for scaling and polishing?

• The procedure begins by rinsing the mouth with a chlorhexidine mouthwash to reduce the aerosol contamination.

• If your gums are tender or teeth sensitive, the doctor will give you an anaesthetic spray.

• Ultrasonic scaler is used to induce vibrations to loosen hardened calculus and stains. Water spray is also used to wash away the debris.

• A prophylactic paste composed mainly of fluoride and pumice is applied to the teeth and it is then spun around the teeth for polishing.

 

What is the duration of the procedure?

The procedure is 30-45 minutes long.

 

Does scaling and polishing damage the tooth?

Contrary to the popular myth, scaling and polishing makes the teeth more healthy by preventing potential gum diseases and other illnesses. Initially the teeth might appear loose  because of removal of calculus , but within a few days the gums heal and tightly adhere to the tooth again. The enamel being the strongest structure in the body cannot be disturbed by ultrasonic scalers.

 

What are the side effects of scaling?

Some-times mild pain, teeth sensitivity, bleeding and swollen gums might be the immediate side effects which will subside usually within 48 hours. 

 

What is root planing?

Sometimes the disease progresses and the gums recede to the level of roots. The irregularities present on the exposed root surface of the teeth locks the calculus making it more tenacious. Root planing involves smoothening of rough spots on the roots of the teeth . This then prevents further calculus deposition.

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Is it necessary to do cleaning and polishing?

Regular oral hygiene techniques might not be sufficient for maintaining one’s oral hygiene.It is very difficult to reach all the teeth surfaces with a normal brush.

It is recommended to visit your dentist twice a year in order to make sure that oral hygiene measures are absolutely in place.
 

How much does scaling and polishing cost in Bangalore?

The price of scaling and polishing starts from Rs 1500. If the calculus /stains are more and additional root planning is needed, it might require a second session.