What does a scale and polish do?

A scale and polish is a professional dental cleaning that removes plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth to help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. The treatment also polishes the tooth surfaces, making it more difficult for plaque to build up again while leaving your teeth feeling cleaner and smoother.

Maintaining good oral hygiene involves more than brushing and flossing alone. Over time, plaque and tartar can build up in areas that are difficult to clean at home. A professional scale and polish removes these deposits, helping reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease while leaving your teeth feeling clean and refreshed.

What is a scale and polish?

Scale and polish are professional dental cleaning procedures that are important for good oral health. During this cleaning, we remove plaque and tartar (also known as calculus) that has built up on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky coating made up of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing your teeth with a toothbrush. It is important to remember that if you leave tartar that has built up in your mouth, it can cause gum disease.

During a scale and polish, specialised dental instruments are used to gently remove plaque and tartar without damaging the teeth or gums. The teeth are then polished to smooth the surfaces, making it more difficult for plaque to accumulate in the future. Depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment to help strengthen the enamel.

Why is professional teeth cleaning important?

Even with normal brushing and flossing, some areas in the mouth may be missed. A professional tooth cleaning by a dentist in Brackenfell plays an important role in reaching hard-to-reach areas. Regular scale and polish treatments with Stellar Dental can help you prevent conditions such as cavities and gum disease. One significant benefit of getting a scale and polish is preventing tooth decay that may need more invasive treatments later.

How often should I get a scale and polish?

The number of times you should get a scale and polish depends on your health needs. At Stellar Dental, we recommend having a professional tooth cleaning at least twice a year. Patients with a history of dental issues such as gum disease might benefit from coming in for more frequent cleanings. At Stellar Dental, a dental clinic near you, our dental cleanings depend greatly on what each individual patient requires when getting cleaning.

Is it normal for gums to bleed when brushing?

Bleeding gums are not usually considered normal and may be an early sign of gum inflammation or gum disease. Plaque and tartar build-up along the gum line can irritate the gums, causing them to bleed during brushing or flossing. A professional scale and polish removes these deposits and allows your dentist to assess the health of your gums. If bleeding continues after improving your oral hygiene, it is important to arrange a dental examination to determine the underlying cause.

What are the benefits of a scale and polish?

A professional scale and polish offers several benefits for your oral health, including:

  • Preventing Gum Disease
  • Fresher Breath
  • A Brighter, Whiter Smile
  • Healthier Looking Gums

At Stellar Dental, your oral health is our priority. Our experienced dental team ensures that every scale and polish treatment is performed with the utmost care. With a dental clinic in Brackenfell, making an appointment has never been easier.

Do not wait until you have dental problems. Book your teeth scale and polish today at Stellar Dental and take the healthy step towards maintaining a beautiful smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does a scale and polish hurt?

Most patients find a scale and polish comfortable, although mild sensitivity may occur if there is significant tartar build-up or inflamed gums. Your dentist will work as gently as possible throughout the procedure.

2. How long does a scale and polish take?

A scale and polish usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar that needs to be removed and whether additional treatment is required.

3. How often should I have a professional teeth cleaning?

Many people benefit from a professional scale and polish every six months, although patients with gum disease or other oral health concerns may need more frequent cleanings based on their dentist's recommendation.

4. Can a scale and polish whiten my teeth?

A scale and polish removes surface stains caused by foods, drinks and tobacco, making your teeth appear cleaner and brighter. However, it does not change the natural shade of your teeth like professional teeth whitening treatment.

5. Can a scale and polish help with bad breath?

Yes. Removing plaque and tartar helps reduce the bacteria that contribute to persistent bad breath, while also improving your overall oral health.

6. Should my gums bleed after a scale and polish?

Some mild tenderness or slight bleeding may occur if your gums were already inflamed before treatment. This usually improves within a few days as your gums begin to heal and your oral hygiene improves.