What is a scale and polish, and why is it important?

What is a scale and polish, and why is it important?

A scale and polish isn’t just a quick clean to improve the appearance of your teeth – it does much more than that. This straightforward treatment plays an important role in maintaining a healthy mouth. It helps prevent issues like gum disease and, over time, can even save you money on more costly dental work.

Though it’s a small procedure, a scale and polish can make a big difference to your oral health. It’s a routine part of dental care suitable for all ages – and many people even find it relaxing.

Here’s what you should know.

What is a scale and polish?

A scale and polish is a professional deep clean done by a dental hygienist. It has two parts and both play a role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Scaling comes first. Scaling gets rid of plaque and hardened tartar from the surface of your teeth and along the gumline. A hygienist might use manual tools or an ultrasonic scaler. This uses gentle vibrations and water to loosen and wash away buildup.

But what are plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria. It coats the teeth and builds up quickly after eating. Brushing your teeth well and flossing removes this layer. Tartar occurs when plaque isn’t removed and hardens. At this point, it can only be removed by a professional. Untreated, it can cause gum inflammation and tooth decay.

Once the teeth are clean, they’re polished. This smooths the enamel, which makes it harder for plaque to stick to the teeth in the future. It also helps to remove surface stains so your teeth feel cleaner and look brighter.

It’s not just about looks. This treatment helps keep your mouth healthy.

Why is a scale and polish important?

A scale and polish tackles problems before they start:

• Prevents gum disease and tooth decay

Gum disease starts as gingivitis. This looks like red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Without treatment, it can progress to periodontitis. This means the gums pull away from the teeth and bone loss occurs. Regular scaling removes the plaque and tartar that cause these problems. Stopping gum disease also lowers the risk of developing cavities too.

• Freshens breath

The bacteria in plaque can cause bad breath because they produce unpleasant odours. A deep clean keeps things fresher for longer.

• Brightens teeth

Everyday habits like drinking coffee, tea or smoking can leave surface stains on your teeth. Polishing lifts surface stains and gives your teeth a smoother, cleaner finish.

• Supports health

Gum disease has been linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Regular hygiene visits help reduce the risk by controlling inflammation and infection in your mouth.

• Saves money

Treating advanced gum disease or tooth decay can be invasive and expensive. Periodontal therapy, for example, can cost hundreds of points. Then there’s the potential for tooth loss and the cost of replacements.  Catching potential issues early means avoiding more complex (and costly) treatment later on.

How often should you get a scale and polish?

Most people can have a scale and polish every six months to keep things in check. This is because plaque and tartar tend to build up steadily over that time. Leave it longer, and it becomes harder to treat.

If you’re in a higher-risk group (if you smoke, have diabetes or a history of gum disease), your dentist or hygienist may recommend you come more often. The same goes for people taking certain medications that affect saliva flow or gum health.

Regular appointments make maintenance easier. You’ll also catch early signs of trouble.

People should also watch for signs that you might need an appointment earlier. Bleeding gums during brushing? Bad breath? Increased sensitivity? These could be signs you need to see a hygienist.

Scale and polish dental hygiene appointments

A scale and polish isn’t just cosmetic. It helps prevent gum disease, tooth decay and more serious dental issues from developing. During the appointment, you can expect a thorough but gentle clean. Usually there’s no special aftercare needed. You’ll simply need to continue good oral hygiene at home.

At Ringway Dental, our friendly and professional hygienists will make sure you feel at ease. If it’s been a while since your last hygiene visit, now’s the perfect time to book in. Book your scale and polish appointment today or contact us to learn more.

Related Posts