Regular Teeth cleaning/ scaling and polishing (professional teeth cleaning) play a major role in maintaining optimal dental and oral health. The frequency of professional teeth cleaning may vary depending on individual needs. However it is generally recommended to undergo scaling and polishing every six months as part of routine dental check-ups.Here are few reasons for the requirement of regular teeth cleaning/ scaling and polishing:
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar: Plaque is a thin sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. If not removed, it can harden to form tartar (or calculus) within a few days. Tartar is a hardened, mineralized deposit that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone. Regular teeth scaling and polishing/ professional teeth cleaning effectively remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease and other dental problems.
- Prevention of bad breath/ Halitosis: As teeth scaling procedure removes plaque, calculus and other deposits on teeth, mouth becomes cleaner and prevents development of bad breath. Persistent bad breath can be a result of poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or the presence of food particles and bacteria in hard-to-reach areas.
- Prevention of Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar build up on teeth can lead to gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Regular scaling and polishing helps to remove the accumulated plaque and tartar, which are major contributors to gum diseases in adults and children. There by reducing the risk of gum inflammation, bleeding and gums recession.
- Enhances Oral Hygiene: Despite regular brushing and flossing, certain areas of the mouth may be difficult to clean effectively, leading to plaque accumulation. Teeth scaling and polishing reach these hard-to-reach areas, including the areas below the gum-line and between the teeth, ensuring a thorough removal of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. This promotes overall oral hygiene and helps prevent cavities, bad breath, and other dental problems.
- Improves Aesthetics: Plaque and tartar build up can cause teeth to appear yellow, stained, or dull. By removing these deposits and surface stains, teeth scaling and polishing can restore the natural whiteness and shine of teeth, resulting in a brighter and more attractive and beautiful smile. Polishing smoothens the tooth surfaces, resulting in a cleaner and brighter smile.
- Supports General Health: We all know that there is a strong link between oral health and general health. Poor oral hygiene and untreated gum diseases are commonly associated with an increased risk of various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Regular teeth scaling and polishing help maintain good oral health, reducing the risk of these potential complications.
Regular teeth scaling and polishing/ professional dental cleaning are essential for maintaining oral health, preventing gum disease, removing plaque and tartar, improving breath freshness, enhancing aesthetics, and detecting early signs of dental issues. It is recommended to consult with a dental professional who can provide personalized advice on the frequency and necessity of teeth scaling and polishing based on individual oral health needs.