Scale and Polish

At Legacy Dental Care, we believe in maintaining a beautiful and healthy smile. Scaling and polishing are essential services we offer to keep teeth and gums healthy. 

What is a scale and polish?

A scale and polish is a professional dental cleaning process designed to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth. Plaque is a sticky bacterial coating that builds up on teeth. If not removed, it will harden into tartar, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Polishing your teeth helps remove surface stains, making your teeth feel smoother and brighter. 

How often should I have a scale and polish?

It is generally advised to have a scale and polish every six months as part of your routine dental examination. However, the frequency may vary depending on your individual oral health needs. If you have a history of gum disease, tartar buildup, or other specific concerns, your dentist may suggest more regular cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.  

Why is a scale and polish important?

A scale and polish offers numerous benefits for your oral health, including:

• Prevents Gum Disease: Removing plaque and tartar buildup helps prevent gum disease, which can cause tooth loss if untreated.
• Reduces Cavities: Regular cleaning removes the bacteria that cause cavities, keeping your teeth healthy and strong.
• Enhances Appearance: Polishing your teeth removes surface stains, giving you a brighter, more attractive smile.
• Fresher Breath: Removing plaque and tartar helps eliminate bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean. 
• Overall Health: Preserving good oral health is crucial for overall health, reducing the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

What does a scale and polish procedure involve?

During a scale and polish at Legacy Dental Care, you can expect the following steps:

1. Examination: We will first assess your mouth to look for signs of gum disease, decay, or other dental health issues. 
2. Scaling: Your dentist will use specialised tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially around the gum line and between the teeth. This process may involve manual scraping or using an ultrasonic scaler that vibrates to break up the tartar. 
3. Polishing: After scaling, we use a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This step helps remove surface stains and makes your teeth smooth and shiny.
4. Fluoride Treatment: Depending on your needs, your dentist might apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and help protect against cavities. This involves placing a fluoride gel or foam into a mouthpiece that you wear for a few minutes.
5. Advice and Aftercare: Finally, your dentist will provide personalised advice on maintaining good oral hygiene at home, including brushing and flossing techniques and any specific products that may benefit you. 

At Legacy Dental Care, we aim to make your scale and polish experience as comfortable and effective as possible.