Table of Contents
What Does Scaling Of Teeth Mean?
Dental caries, bleeding gums, bad breath, and gum pain are some of the commonly faced problems by dental patients. The common source for all the issues are the bacteria growing around teeth and gums. These bacteria thrive in the plaque, which are soft deposits of debris seen in the mouth. The removal of plaque is done by a procedure called scaling. Scaling is a procedure involving cleaning teeth and removal of accumulated food, bacteria, and debris. The beginning of deposition of plaque should always be tried at home with the help of dental floss and by brushing.
Is Scaling Of Teeth Painful?
Scaling is a dental procedure done with the help of an instrument known as a scaler. A scaler may be of two types :-
1) Hand scaler and 2) Ultrasonically driven scaler
Ultrasonic scalers are preferred over hand scalers because they are quicker and easier to use. When the ultrasonic scalers are used, there is a slight amount of sensitivity experienced. This sensitivity arises in patients having worn off teeth or in patients having receded gums. However, this sensitivity is taken care of by topical and local anesthetics. Also, if there is excessive sensitivity, then hand scalers can be used by the dentists.
Side Effects Due To Scaling of Teeth
Many patients experience mobility in teeth after scaling is done. This mobility happens due to highly calcified debris(tartar) around the teeth. This highly infective deposit in the mouth leads to bone loss around the teeth, leading to loosening of teeth in the dental socket. So when the teeth are already loose but held tight by the calcified debris, their mobility is not easily identified by the patients. Post scaling, when this infected deposit is cleaned off, the movement which had already set in, becomes visible.
Also, some patients experience sensitivity around the teeth after scaling. This sensitivity is due to the ultrasonic vibrations acting on the teeth. However, this sensitivity subsides with time, and you need not be worried about it. Your dentist may also prescribe a desensitizing agent after the scaling procedure.
How Frequently Should You undergo scaling of teeth?
Scaling should be done when there are stains or tartar deposits around the teeth. When deposits are seen, they should be scaled off immediately from a dentist. Ideally, a dentist should be visited every six months.
How Many Appointments Does It Take To Clean All The Teeth?
The number of visits depends on the amount of tartar and stains. Some dentists divide the mouth into four quadrants, thereby requiring four trips to the dental clinic, while others will perform dental scaling in two halves.
After completion of the entire procedure, the dentist will schedule one more appointment to check the health of gums and teeth and to ensure if the mouth is healing.
Cost Of Scaling Of Teeth
Scaling of teeth may cost in the range of $30 to $120. Periodontists, who are experts in the field of scaling, may charge a premium.
Dental scaling is a standard treatment for all dental patients. Scheduling a dental scaling appointment helps you get rid of all the plaque, tartar, and bad breath, thereby promoting a healthy oral environment. A complete mouth cleaning session should be planned, for a newer, hygienic smile.