Dental hygiene, scale and polish, teeth scraping, teeth cleaning… there are many different terms used to describe the management of your oral hygiene by a dental hygienist. But are they all the same thing? What else does a dental hygienist do?
What Is a Scale and Polish?
A scale and polish is a thorough teeth cleaning procedure performed by a dental hygienist during a dental hygiene appointment. In smaller dental practices, a dentist may also perform this procedure. However, in larger practices like Spring Dental Practice in Hull, dentists focus on surgeries and procedures while our skilled hygienists ensure your teeth are clean and healthy.
During a scale and polish, plaque and tartar on your teeth are carefully scraped off using special tools in a painless process. Plaque is a hard substance formed by bacteria that consume the sugars in our food and produce acids that erode tooth enamel. If not removed, plaque can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Once the plaque is removed, a buffing tool is used to polish the teeth, removing surface stains and making the teeth smoother and brighter. This smooth surface helps prevent bacteria from adhering to your teeth and forming new plaque.
Does a Scale and Polish Whiten Your Teeth?
While a scale and polish can make your teeth look brighter by removing surface stains and yellowish plaque, it doesn’t actually whiten your teeth. For a whiter smile, you would need a professional teeth whitening treatment. This involves applying a chemical paste to your teeth and using UV light to enhance its effects, resulting in a whiter smile.
Why Is Scaling and Polishing Important?
Gum disease is often caused by the buildup of plaque bacteria. Regular brushing can remove much of this bacteria, but some areas are hard to reach with a toothbrush. Over time, plaque can mineralise into a tough deposit called calculus or tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. If left untreated, this can lead to gum disease and other dental problems.
To reduce the risk of gum disease and keep your mouth healthy, your dentist may recommend a professional clean, known as a scale and polish. This procedure ensures that all plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth, even from the hard-to-reach areas.
What to Expect at a Scale and Polish Appointment
A scale and polish can be done by either your dentist or a dental hygienist. The procedure involves two main stages:
1. Scaling: The first stage involves removing deposits of plaque and tartar. An ultrasound scaler is often used to remove the bulk of the tartar, followed by specialised hand-held instruments to scrape away any remaining deposits.
2. Polishing: The second stage involves polishing your teeth to make their surface smooth and shiny. This not only improves the appearance of your teeth but also helps protect against further plaque buildup by smoothing out any rough patches where bacteria could adhere.
Your dentist will advise you on how often you should have a scale and polish. Remember, professional cleaning is an addition to your daily oral health routine and should never replace twice-daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste.
Scale & Polishing Price
Why Choose Spring Dental Care?
Choosing the right dentist can make all the difference in your oral health journey. Here are a few reasons why Spring Dental Care stands out:
- Location: Situated in the heart of the Spring Bank West area, we are conveniently located for residents of Hull and nearby towns.
- Expertise: Our team of dental professionals is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care tailored to meet the needs of each patient.
- Community Focus: Understanding the unique challenges our community faces, we strive to offer practical and beneficial solutions, making dental care accessible to all.
Your Go-To Dentist in Hull and Beyond
At Spring Dental Care, everyone deserves a healthy, confident smile. From preventative care to complex dental procedures, we are here to support your oral health every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your dentist or hygienist will recommend the best frequency for your scale and polish appointments based on your individual oral health needs, typically every 6 to 12 months.
No, the procedure is generally painless. Some patients may experience slight discomfort if they have sensitive teeth or gums, but this is usually minimal.
A scale and polish can remove surface stains and brighten your teeth, but for deeper stains, professional teeth whitening may be necessary.
The appointment usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar buildup.
Yes, scaling and polishing are safe procedures for most people. However, your dentist will assess your oral health to ensure it’s the right treatment for you.
