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Why is Dental Scaling Important?
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Prevents Gum Disease: Tartar buildup can lead to gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Scaling helps remove this buildup and prevent gum disease.
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Maintains Oral Health: Regular scaling helps maintain overall oral health by preventing cavities and gum problems.
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Improves Aesthetics: Scaling removes surface stains from teeth, improving their appearance.
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Reduces Bad Breath: Removing tartar and plaque helps to reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath.
How is Dental Scaling Performed?
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Examination: The dentist or dental hygienist first examines your mouth to identify areas of tartar buildup.
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Ultrasonic Scaler: An ultrasonic scaler, which uses high-frequency vibrations, may be used to break up larger pieces of tartar. This device also sprays a cooling mist of water to wash away debris.
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Hand Scaling: After the larger deposits are removed, hand-held instruments called scalers and curettes are used to remove smaller deposits and smooth the tooth surfaces.
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Polishing: After scaling, the teeth are polished using a gritty toothpaste-like substance and a special brush to remove surface stains and make the teeth smooth.
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Fluoride Treatment: A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen the teeth and help prevent future cavities.
When is Dental Scaling Necessary?
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Routine Cleanings: Regular dental check-ups typically include scaling to maintain oral health.
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Gum Disease Treatment: If you have signs of gum disease (e.g., redness, swelling, bleeding), scaling may be performed more frequently.
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Heavy Tartar Buildup: Individuals with heavy tartar buildup may require more frequent scaling.
Dental scaling is a crucial procedure for maintaining oral health and preventing more serious dental issues. Regular visits to your dentist for scaling and check-ups can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
