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What Is A Scale And Polish?
A scale and polish is the procedure of professionally cleaning the teeth and gums.
It involves removing staining, plaque (soft, sticky bacteria) and tartar build up. Tartar is formed when plaque is left on the teeth for too long and hardens. This cannot be removed with regular tooth-brushing.
Specialized instruments are used to gently remove these deposits. The teeth are then polished using a soft rubber cup and a gritty-like paste.
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How Much Does Scale And Polish Cost?
A scale and polish with a dental hygienist at 3Dental costs €70 for a 30 minute session.
Patients with PRSI contributions are entitled to one scale and polish per annum, at a cost of €15.
3Dental does not accept medical cards.
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Dental Hygiene At 3Dental
With state of the art surgeries and equipment, patients are guaranteed a highly professional level of care.
Our hygienists regularly update their skills and knowledge, as part of their continuing professional development. They are constantly providing and promoting oral care advice.
All the hygienists welcome feedback from their patients.
Benefits of Scale and Polish Treatment
Healthier Gums
Lowers The Chance of Tooth Decay
Cleaner Teeth
Brighter Smile
Less Tartar Build Up
Fresher Breath
Become More Conscious Of Good Oral Care Habits
Boost Your Confidence
How Does Scale and Polish Work?
- Initial Consultation
- The Scaling Procedure
- The Polishing Procedure
- Results
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Initial Consultation
On a patient's first visit, their medical history is noted and checked before any treatment is carried out. Any issues that the patient may be having in relation to their oral hygiene are then discussed.
This can range from bleeding gums, to difficulties flossing etc. The health of the gums is then assessed, using an instrument called a probe. This instrument is gently walked along the gum line to check for bleeding, inflammation and any plaque deposits that may have accumulated below the gumline.
By doing this assessment we are able to check for the presence of gum disease. After this assessment has been made, a treatment plan can be devised. In the cases of gum disease, deep cleaning is needed, which would require more visits.
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The Scaling Procedure
An ultrasonic scaler called a Cavitron is primarily used during a scale and polish.
This device vibrates at a high frequency and sprays water in order to remove plaque and staining from the teeth. This is the most effective way of deposit removal. Hand scalers may be required to remove tougher deposits.
If a patient has sensitive teeth local anaesthetic can be administered, in order to make the cleaning more comfortable for them.
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The Polishing Procedure
After the scaling comes the polishing. This is done with the aid of a small motorized rubber cup and polishing paste. The polish helps to remove staining and leaves the teeth feeling nice and smooth.
Oral hygiene instructions are given to every patient. This includes correct brushing technique and interdental cleaning demonstrations e.g. flossing.
Patients are advised as to which products are most suitable to them. It is advised that patients have a scale and polish every 6 months in order to maintain a healthy mouth.
Some patients accumulate a build up of tartar, faster than others. These patients need more frequent cleanings, every 3 or 4 months. This is something that we discuss with patients at their initial consultation.
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Results
Following a scale and polish, patients should expect to have cleaner teeth, healthier gums and fresher breath. Polishing will successfully remove tea, coffee and red wine stains.
Regular scaling and polishing helps to reduce the risk of infection and gum disease.
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Check Out Our Happy Scale and Polish Patients
We have improved 1,000's of smiles using scale and polish in our Dublin, Limerick and Galway clinics.
But don't take our word for it!
Commonly Asked Questions
How often should I get a scale and polish?
6 months for a healthy mouth, 3-4 months for people with fast tartar build up.
Does a scale and polish hurt?
No. Patients may feel unusual sensations and light vibrations from the Cavitron. If patients are extra sensitive, numbing gel and anaesthetic are available if required.
Is scale and polish necessary?
Yes, scale and polish is vital to maintain good oral hygiene.
If plaque build up is not removed professionally, it can be very harmful to the health of the gums and teeth.
Is scale and polish the same as visiting a dental hygienist?
Thorough scale and polishing is carried out by dental hygienists.
While some dentists carry out cleanings during 6 month check-ups, in the majority of dental practices, patients are referred to the dental hygienist for their cleanings.
Does a scale and polish whiten your teeth?
While the polish can be useful to remove tea, coffee, red wine and some smoking stains, it does not whiten the teeth.
Some patients may notice that their teeth look brighter following a scale and polish, but their teeth will not be whiter. Teeth whitening is a separate procedure.
Can scaling loosen teeth?
In the case of a healthy mouth, no.
If a patient presents with advanced gum disease and a large build up of tartar, their teeth may seem looser once the tartar has been removed, as this would have been holding their teeth in place.
What do dentists use to polish teeth?
A non-abrasive polishing paste is used by dental hygienists. This has a gritty toothpaste consistency.
What does a dental hygienist do?
A dental hygienist is responsible for carrying out routine dental cleanings. They educate patients on how to improve their overall oral health as well as promoting healthy behaviours.
Hygienists also perform preventative treatments such as the application of fluoride and fissure sealants.
Dental hygienists are not trained to detect cavities.
How is a dental hygienist different from a dentist?
Dental hygienists work under the instruction of a dentist. They carry out all routine dental cleanings and provide oral hygiene instructions.
A hygienist will refer a patient to the dentist if more serious problems are detected. Dentists carry out more extensive procedures.
Can I get a scale and polish near me?
Yes! We provide scale and polish in each of our three clinics - Dublin, Limerick and Galway.
Book your free consultation today! We look forward to welcoming you in person soon :)
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