Scale and polish how long

Mark Gussy of La Trobe University's dental school said the review by Mr Lamont and colleagues updated a previous review that also questions the wisdom of a routine scale and polish. Regardless of the benefits of a routine scale and polish, dental check-ups are important for other reasons. During an examination a dentist will check for decay, loose fillings and even oral cancer. But exactly how often you need a check-up depends on the individual, Professor Gussy, who reviewed the evidence on the question back in , said.

Professor Gussy said there were tools available to help dentists determine an individual's risk of disease, but dentists often played it safe and set their computers to send out six-month recalls regardless of someone's risk. As to how often you should go to the dentist? The results from a new study, conducted in the UK, looking at this question should be out soon.

We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn, and work. Key points: Many dentists have people on a six or month recall for check-ups that include a scale and polish, which is believed to protect against gum disease New research has found a regular routine scale and polish provided no benefits to adults without severe gum disease Dental check ups are still important, although the frequency should depend on your level of disease risk.

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A former cop calls it 'the number one threat to society'. But it's a crime no-one talks about. But disaster could strike come March. This is why. Your dentist will advise you how often you should have a scale and polish. It's important to remember that professional cleaning is an addition to a good daily oral health routine, and should never replace twice daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste.

They may recommend using a toothpaste such as Corsodyl Toothpaste to help remove plaque between visits to the dentist. Plaque bacteria is one of the most common causes of gum disease. But do you know how it causes gum disease - and what you can do about it? One of the leading causes of tooth loss is periodontitis, a serious and irreverible advanced stage of gum disease. Act now to help prevent gum disease. Corsodyl 0. For the treatment of gingivitis. Always read the label. All information appearing on this site is reserved for residents of the UK only.

All rights reserved. Please read the Terms of Use and Privacy Statement. Select location:. What is a Scale And Polish? Your dental hygienist may use a variety of instruments to reach different parts of your mouth. Next up, the polish stage will restore your teeth to their natural sheen using a rotating brush and toothpaste.

Alternatively, your dental hygienist may use a device like the Airflow teeth cleaning machine. This emits a stream of water, air and sodium bicarbonate and is very effective at cleaning and polishing your teeth.

Throughout the day, a sticky film of plaque builds up on your teeth. This sticky substance is full of bacteria and it is turned into an acid when it reacts with the sugar in our food. Plaque can be removed by brushing your teeth twice a day, but the problems lie in those hard to reach areas. When plaque builds up over time, it hardens into a substance known as calculus or tartar. This might include a scraping sensation or a tickling feeling in your gums. A numbing gel can be used if you are very nervous about any dental pain.

If you are nervous about the scale and polish being painful, then speak to the receptionist when you book your appointment and they will be able to let your dental hygienist know. We would recommend a scale and polish treatment every six months in order to prevent the build up of plaque on your teeth.