Scaling and Polishing (Hygiene)

Professional dental hygiene, or scaling and polishing, is the routine cleaning that complements home brushing and flossing. Even with good daily care, plaque hardens over time into tartar (calculus) that adheres firmly to the teeth and along and below the gumline and cannot be removed by a toothbrush; this build-up harbours bacteria and is a key factor in gum inflammation. At Ddent an ultrasonic scaler is used to break up and flush away tartar and…

Keeping the gums and supporting tissues healthy through regular scaling is associated with a reduced risk of gum disease progressing, and a hygiene visit also gives the dentist a chance to spot early signs of decay or gum problems. For patients with more noticeable staining from coffee, tea, red wine or smoking, the centre offers an air-flow option that uses a jet of fine powder and water to clean stubborn stains and reach areas a standard polish may not,…