Scaling and Polishing (from $150)
X-rays ($25 each) I Periodontal Treatment (from $150)
When is a scale and polish necessary?
Despite our best efforts, brushing twice a day does not remove all the plaque in our mouths, plaque that remains in the mouth will eventually harden and form calculus or tartar. Manual tooth brushing will not be able to remove this tartar and it must be removed by the dentist only.
How is this done?
This is done by the dentist with a high frequency vibration scalar that ultrasonically removes the tartar from the tooth surface. This can also be done by hand, for those with very sensitive teeth and gums. The teeth are given a polish with an abrasive paste to make them smooth and to prevent plaque from adhering to the teeth.
What happens if I do not get a regular cleaning done?
The results of not having regular cleanings done will not be immediately apparent, but if tartar is left on the teeth, it thickens over time, becomes a bacteria trap and starts causing gum disease.
Gum disease symptoms includes:
1. Sore and bleeding gums
2. Bad breath
3. Metallic taste in mouth
4. General sore mouth
5. Inflamed gums
6. Loose or mobile teeth.
As gum disease progresses, it starts affecting the tissue holding the teeth in the jaw and progresses to periodontitis. The gums become red and inflamed, may bleed while brushing or even spontaneously, the gum begins to ‘shrink’ or recede and teeth pay become mobile due to loss in bone height.
How is gum treatment different from scale and polish?
A scale and polish is a simple procedure that is usually done in one appointment and involves the removal of superficial tartar build-up around the teeth and gums. The tartar build-up at this stage has not caused much damage to gums and bone.
With gum treatment, inflammation of the gums will mean that the treatment will need to be done over several appointments. Depending on your level of discomfort, you may or may not need an anaesthetic for the procedure. Sometimes, with cases of very severe gum disease or very heavy tartar build-up, the dentist may decide to clean one half of your mouth per visit.
Gum treatment involves clearing plaque and tartar from the deep tissue pockets to help the gums regenerate.
What can be expected after a scale and polish or gum treatment?
Initially, your gums may feel sensitive, and your teeth may feel “empty”. Sensitivity is normal and the sensitivity should subside after a few days, using a fluoridated tooth paste will help with this. The empty feeling will pass as well, and this sensation is usually the result after the tartar between the teeth is removed.
How can I avoid gum disease?
Ways to prevent gum disease include
1. Brush twice a day
2. Floss regularly
3. Mouthwash should be used half an hour after brushing
4. Visit your dentist regularly and have a regular scale and polish
5. Avoid smoking
6. Eat a balanced diet
If you have any questions , please feel free to call us on 0800 268 954 or email us on appointment@hillparkdental.co.nz