Getting your teeth examined and cleaned by a dentist is a vital part of your oral hygiene routine. Besides keeping your gums and teeth healthy, we, at Teeth & Braces can also detect problems such as gum disease or cavities, and rectify them before they worsen.

Teeth cleaning and polishing is a procedure that removes surface stains on the crown (or above the gum line) part of the tooth so they will look and feel cleaner. By making these surfaces smooth, it is tougher for plaque and food debris to gather on your teeth, in that way causing decay or gum disease.

A cleaning routine typically involves two procedures: scaling and polishing.

Scaling

As we eat and drink, food and bacteria may gather in our teeth, which ultimately becomes dental plaque. Over time, the dental plaque may harden to form tartar. While regular brushing and flossing may eliminate some plaque, they cannot eliminate tartar. It will have to be removed by a dentist through a procedure called scaling.

Scaling comprises the use of a particular instrument to loosen and remove plaque and tartar without harming your gums and teeth.

Polishing

Generally done after scaling, polishing take away surface stains while making your teeth smooth and shiny. We use another instrument, along with a special paste, to polish your teeth.

Depending on your oral health, you might need to get your teeth cleaned every six months. If you are due for your regular scaling and polishing, schedule an appointment with us.