what is teeth scaling and why we should do it?
You brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly, so your teeth must be healthy, right? Not necessarily. Even with great at-home hygiene habits, you may still need to see a dentist for teeth scaling. But what are teeth scaling, when do you need it, and how much do teeth scaling cost? Read more to find out.
In this article
- What are teeth scaling?
- When do you need teeth scaling?
- Who performs teeth scaling?
- What happens before teeth scaling?
- What occurs during teeth scaling?
- What happens after teeth scaling?
- Benefits of teeth scaling
- Are there any risks involved?
- What to expect after teeth scaling?
- How many dentist visits will I need to have my teeth scaled?
- What if I have dental anxiety?
- How much are the teeth scaling price?
- Final words
What are teeth scaling?
Teeth scaling is a deep cleaning method used to remove tartar (hardened plaque) from above and below the gum line. Your dentist will use special tools to scrape away the tartar buildup, giving your teeth a thorough clean.
When do you need teeth scaling?
You may need teeth scaling if you have tartar buildup, gingivitis (early stage of gum disease), or periodontitis (advanced stage of gum disease). While plaque can be removed at home with regular brushing and flossing, tartar can only be removed by a professional dentist.
Who performs teeth scaling?
Dentists and periodontists (gum disease specialists) provide these gum disease treatments. In some countries, a dental hygienist usually performs it. During the same dental appointment, root planning and scaling of the teeth are done. You may require more than one appointment, if your condition is severe.
What happens before teeth scaling?
Typically, periodontal disease doesn’t hurt. During a dental examination, your dentist might determine that you have periodontitis. Dental X-rays may also be used to check for issues like bone loss, cavities, and abscessed teeth (tooth infections). Your doctor will review your treatment choices if you have periodontitis. At a later session, teeth scaling will be performed.
What occurs during teeth scaling?
The dentist will carry out the scaling procedure using an ultrasonic scaler, a vibrating instrument and these actions could happen during tooth scaling:
- The scaler’s vibrating metal tip removes tartar from your teeth above the gum line.
- The dentist will remove the tartar and plaque from the gum pockets by spraying water.
- Your doctor utilizes a curette, a manual (not powered) dental scaler and a scraper to get rid of any last few bits of tartar.
What happens after teeth scaling?
Plaque and bacteria are less likely to adhere to the polished surfaces of your teeth after treatment. As your gums recover, inflammation lessens. Your healthy gums can reattach to the rounded tooth roots more firmly.
Your doctor will gauge the pockets around your gum tissue at follow-up visits. Periodontal surgery can be required if the pockets don’t get smaller.
Benefits of teeth scaling
Regular teeth cleanings are essential because they can remove tartar buildup before it leads to gum disease. Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss, so it’s essential to catch it early and treat it before it becomes more advanced. In addition to preventing gum disease, teeth scaling can also help:
Avoid dental decay and cavities
Teeth scaling will help you to prevent cavities and tooth decay, which are the origin of all major dental problems. The hardest component of your teeth, the enamel layer, is damaged by the cavities, which serve as a breeding ground for plaque. So think of the potential harm it may cause! Plaque is simply a film of white, sticky material on your teeth and it can be prevented by seeing the dentist every six months for scaling, in addition to practicing good oral hygiene practices like brushing twice a day and flossing.
Prevent periodontal disease
Plaque, which causes various issues, will damage your gums if it has grown below the gumline. This may also result in tooth loss. Cleaning or scaling your teeth will protect your gumline, a strong anchor for your teeth, and maintain good dental hygiene.
Remove stains
Tinges appear on the teeth after consuming tobacco, wine, coloured beverages, tea, or coffee. It enables you to get rid of all these stains from and on your teeth, keep your smile, and to some extent, lighten your teeth.
Avoid bad breath
Plaque, which is the root of many dental problems, traps germs and hardens into tartar on the teeth, which causes halitosis or bad breath. You will observe some effects from regular brushing and flossing, but scaling is required to eradicate foul breath totally. Your mouth will feel cleaner when all bacteria, stains, tartar, and plaque have been removed.
Save on restorative dental care
To your surprise, the cost of teeth cleaning is far less than the condition that develops without frequent teeth scaling, as it aggravates dental problems. There are many reasons individuals don’t go for regular teeth scaling or cleaning; one is to save money. If this occurs, you will need to spend more money on restorative dentistry or periodontal disease treatment. Teeth scaling is a component of preventative treatment and aids in preventing numerous dental diseases because prevention is always preferable to cure.
Are there any risks involved?
Teeth scaling is generally safe, but as with any dental procedure, there are some risks and post-operative symptoms involved. These risks may include:
- Bleeding gums
- Swelling in the gums
- Tenderness or soreness in the gums
- Infection in the gums
- Weakened root surfaces
- Damage to filling materials or other dental work
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Thankfully, some of the post-operative symptoms are normal and the risks are rare, and if you experience any unusual side effects after your procedure, be sure to contact your dentist immediately. They will be able to help you determine whether or not the side effect is normal or cause for concern.
What to expect after teeth scaling?
Most people don’t experience any significant side effects after having their teeth scaled. As discussed above, you may have some minor bleeding or swelling in your gums for a few days after the procedure, but this is normal and should go away on its own within a week or so.
Contact your dentist if the bleeding or swelling lasts longer than a week. Additionally, you may notice that your teeth are more sensitive than usual for a few days following the procedure. This is also normal and should resolve itself within a week.
To help ease any discomfort and speed up the healing process, be sure to:
- Rinse with warm salt water three times per day
- Avoid hard foods
- Brush gently
- Floss carefully
- Use an alcohol-free mouthwash
- Take pain medication as needed
In most cases, you will be able to return to your regular oral hygiene routine within 24 hours of having your teeth scaled. However, be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your dentist.
How many dentist visits will I need to have my teeth scaled?
The extent of your problem and your dentist’s preference will determine how many dental appointments you require for scaling and planning. One side of the mouth (both upper and lower teeth) may be treated by one dentist in a single visit. You’ll require another appointment to treat the other side of your mouth.
Some healthcare professionals treat each mouth quadrant independently. For instance, they scale and plane your mouth’s lower right side. They might do oral surgery on your upper right side during your subsequent session. You will require four appointments to complete this course of treatment.
What if I have dental anxiety?
Plaque can be eliminated with routine dental cleanings before it can develop into tartar. However, some people are terrified of seeing the dentist. If you identify with this, you are not alone. Up to one in three people experience dental phobia, known as odontophobia. 10% of people have such severe dentophobia that they never visit a dentist.
Dentophobia is a recognized phobic disorder, a subtype of anxiety disorder, according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA). You can get over this fear by visiting a mental health practitioner. Additionally, you ought to disclose your dental phobia to them. They can take measures to make you more at ease so you can receive the dental care you require.
How much are the teeth scaling price?
You can find teeth scaling price varies from city to city and depending on your teeth’ condition. The teeth scaling price range in the main cities like Kuala Lumpur tends to be higher and can go up to RM400 per session. The teeth scaling price at Dr Fatain Dental Clinic starts from only RM100 to RM200. This price is inclusive of a complimentary consultation and teeth polishing.
Final Words
Getting your teeth scaled regularly is important for maintaining good oral health. Not only does it remove tartar buildup that can lead to gum disease, but it can also give you fresher breath and boost your overall self-esteem. While some risks are involved, they are rare and typically go away on their own.
You only have one set of teeth when you’re an adult. Nobody wants to run the risk of losing them to gum disease. Fortunately, teeth scaling can keep your smile intact. The equipment and knowledge required to remove the tartar that causes periodontal disease are only available to dental professionals.
However, regular brushing and flossing can maintain the health of your gums and teeth. Ask your dentist or other dental professionals to demonstrate how to brush correctly, floss, and take care of your teeth to reduce your risk of gum disease.
Looking forward to getting your teeth scaled at Dr Fatain Dental Clinic? If so, be sure to visit us! Our experienced professionals will take care of all your needs and ensure that you leave with a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!