3 Steps For A Deep Scaling And Professional Teeth Cleaning

Calculus or tartar is a form of hardened dental plaque. It is caused by precipitation of minerals from saliva and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) in plaque on the teeth. This process of precipitation kills the bacterial cells within dental plaque, but the rough and hardened surface that is formed provides an ideal surface for further plaque formation. This leads to calculus buildup, which compromises the health of the gingiva (gums). Calculus is composed of both inorganic (mineral) and organic (cellular and extracellular matrix) components. Plaque that remains in the oral cavity long enough will eventually calcify and become calculus. Calculus is detrimental to gingival health because it serves as a trap for increased plaque formation and retention; thus, calculus, along with other factors that cause a localized build-up of plaque, is referred to as a secondary etiology of periodontitis. Ultrasonic devices are the most common instruments for removing calculus from teeth.

Calculus accumulation may cause gum inflammation and periodontal diseases. So, it’s important to remove them regularly (twice a year, which is my recommendation). Dental Stain External discolouration is the accumulation of stains on the tooth surface. Extrinsic discolourations are common and have many different causes such as: • Dental plaque (Although usually virtually invisible on the tooth surface, plaque may become stained by chromogenic bacteria such as Actinomyces species) • Tobacco • Betel chewing • Certain foods and drinks • Certain topical medications Brushing, using a low-speed handpiece and prophylaxis past, is the most common treatment for removing stains. Air flow Instruments (Prophy-mate) This device is designed for stain removal from interdental areas, pits, and fissures. These areas, can’t be cleaned by common rotary brushes. Prophy-mate is an air powered tooth polishing system for plaque removal, cleaning, and preparation of surfaces. This device uses a combination of water, compressed air, and abrasive powder for removing plaque and stain. Polishing The most common device for final polishing is a “rotary rubber-cap”. A proper tooth polishing after scaling leads to a decrease in plaque, stain, and calculus accumulation in the future.