We’ve all been told how important it is to clean our teeth every day with floss, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. But to maintain good oral health, it’s also important to visit the dentist regularly for dental exams and professional cleanings.
Dental scaling is a specific type of deep cleaning that can only be done at the dentist’s office. This professional procedure removes plaque and tartar build-up, which cannot be removed by day-to-day cleaning. A benefit of scaling is that it can help prevent gum disease from progressing.
What Is Dental Scaling?
Dental scaling and root planing is a procedure that needs to be done in a dental clinic by a professional. During this procedure, tartar is scraped away from above and below the gums. Root planing also removes tartar from below the gumline.
Dental scaling is usually done either by hand or with a vibrating ultrasonic tool. Professional scaling is necessary to remove tartar, which is the substance plaque (bacteria build-up) hardens into. Unfortunately, even the best brushers and flossers can’t remove tartar on their own. Untreated tartar build-up can lead to more serious gum disease down the road.
All About Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common condition experienced by many adults. There are two types: gingivitis is an early and milder form of gum disease; periodontitis is a more advanced disease that impacts the structures (eg. bone and gums) that anchor your teeth.
Symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Painful, swollen, and red gums
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Noticing blood when you brush or floss
Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Loosening teeth
- Bleeding and pus
- Receding gums
- Halitosis (bad breath) and/or a bad taste
Gingivitis and periodontitis are associated with health conditions like diabetes and HIV as well as certain medications. Hormonal changes (such as those caused by pregnancy) and smoking are also linked. Another risk factor for gum disease is poor oral hygiene,
About Plaque & Tartar
Plaque and tartar are culprits for gum disease. Plaque is a sticky substance made up of bacteria. It attaches to teeth and produces acids that harm your teeth and gums. You can remove plaque by brushing and flossing regularly.
If plaque remains untreated, it can harden into tartar (also called calculus). Tartar can cause infection. It cannot be removed by everyday flossing and brushing. However, dental scaling at a professional clinic can remove tartar.
Benefits of Scaling
Dental scaling can intervene in the progression of gum disease by removing plaque and tartar. Other benefits of scaling include:
- Reducing the size of periodontal pockets: These are open gaps around teeth beneath the gum line that fill up with bacteria. A symptom of gum disease, a scaling and root planing procedure can help gums reattach to teeth and reduce the size of the pocket.
- Preventing tooth loss: Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By being proactive about your oral care and undergoing procedures like dental scaling, you can reduce the risk of losing your teeth.
- Managing bad breath: Gingivitis and periodontitis may cause bad breath as a symptom. Preventative care can help remove tartar and keep your breath pleasantly fresh.
- Preventing other health conditions: Did you know that gum disease can affect other parts of your body? Researchers have found associations between gum disease and heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
What Happens During Scaling
If you’ve never had dental scaling done before, you may have some questions on what to expect.
Dental scaling can be done by a dentist or dental hygienist. At West 85th Dental, scaling is usually the first part of a cleaning appointment, which includes:
- Scraping away tartar with small metal instruments
- Flossing between teeth
- Brushing with a special gritty toothpaste
- Rinsing with water
- Fluoride treatment, which acts as a protective sealant
Local anaesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort during scaling. Talk to your dentist if you have any questions or concerns.
Aftercare
Your dentist may give you specific aftercare instructions after a scaling appointment. How often you require scaling and cleaning will also depend on your specific oral health status.
After a scaling procedure, it’s helpful to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently, as hard scrubbing can irritate and damage gums. Try to floss at least once a day to remove plaque build-up.
You can ask your dentist about using antiseptic mouthwash, saltwater rinses, or if there are certain foods (eg. hard and crunchy foods) you should avoid. If your teeth feel sensitive to hot or cold foods, try using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Keep an eye out for symptoms of infection, such as swelling, bleeding, and pain. Contact your dentist immediately if you suspect an infection.
Dental Scaling & Cleaning at West 85th Dental
At West 85th Dental, we understand that dental scaling and cleaning can be an intimidating procedure. That’s why we also offer procedures like guided biofilm therapy (GBT), which prioritizes patient comfort.
Another option for nervous patients is sedation dentistry. Available sedation methods include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), anxiolysis, and oral conscious sedation. These methods can help reduce anxiety while letting us help take care of your teeth!
Good oral health is essential to overall well-being, allowing you to smile, chat with loved ones, and enjoy food and drink. To take a proactive step in caring for your oral health, book an appointment at West 85th Dental today.
