Scale & Polish

Scale and Polish At Manningtree Dental and Implant Centre.

At a Glance

Expected results

Maintain oral health

Treatment time

Up to 30 minutes

Anaesthetic

None

Longevity

Case dependent

Overview

Scale and polish is a common dental treatment offered at Manningtree Dental and Implant Centre, aimed at maintaining optimal oral health. This procedure involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, followed by polishing to smooth the surfaces. Scale and polish is essential for preventing gum disease, reducing the risk of cavities, and maintaining a bright, healthy smile.

What Is Scale & Polish Used To Treat?

Scale and polish is primarily used to treat and prevent gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis), as well as to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from the teeth. Regular scale and polish treatments help in keeping the gums healthy and can significantly improve oral hygiene, leading to fresher breath and a cleaner mouth.

The Treatment Process

Our experienced dental professionals ensure your comfort throughout the treatment process, which typically includes:

Initial Examination

Your dentist or hygienist will begin by examining your teeth and gums to assess the extent of plaque and tartar buildup.

Scaling

Using specialised tools, the dental professional will carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, particularly around the gum line and between teeth.

Polishing

After scaling, your teeth will be polished using a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste. This step smooths the tooth surfaces, making it more difficult for plaque to accumulate.

Final Rinse

The treatment concludes with a thorough rinse to remove any remaining debris and polishing paste.

Treatment Aftercare

After a scale and polish, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash. Avoid eating or drinking anything that might stain your teeth for a few hours post-treatment.

FAQs

How often should I get a scale and polish?

It’s generally recommended to have a scale and polish every six months as part of your routine dental check-up. However, this can vary depending on your oral health. If you have a history of gum disease or excessive tartar buildup, your dentist may advise more frequent visits, such as every three to four months, to maintain optimal oral health.

Does a scale and polish hurt?

Most people find scale and polish treatments to be comfortable, experiencing only minor discomfort, especially if there’s significant plaque or tartar buildup. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, you may feel some discomfort during the procedure, but this is typically minimal. Your dentist can use a numbing gel if needed to ensure your comfort.

Can a scale and polish whiten my teeth?

While a scale and polish can remove surface stains caused by food, drinks, and smoking, it is not a teeth whitening treatment. The procedure will leave your teeth looking cleaner and brighter, but it won’t change the natural colour of your teeth. For a more noticeable whitening effect, consider professional teeth whitening treatments.

Is a scale and polish necessary if I brush and floss regularly?

Even with excellent oral hygiene, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. A scale and polish is essential to remove this buildup, which regular brushing and flossing might miss, preventing gum disease and keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Are there any side effects of a scale and polish?

Side effects are typically minimal. Some patients might experience temporary sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods and drinks. Mild gum irritation or bleeding can also occur but should resolve within a day or two. If discomfort persists, it’s advisable to contact your dentist.

Meet The Team

From our friendly front desk staff to our experienced dentists and hygienists, we’re all here to help you achieve your best smile.

Thoughts from our Patients

At Manningtree Dental, our patients are at the heart of everything we do. Hearing your experiences not only helps us grow but also inspires others to choose the best care for their smiles.