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Does scaling thin the tooth?

Are your teeth yellow-brown? In this case, dental scaling can help. In this article, everything you need to know about whether scaling makes teeth thinner. We explain to understand.

Scaling and polishing teeth

If you develop a severe gum disease called periodontitis, you may need tooth and root scaling to remove tartar and treat inflamed gums. These deep-cleaning methods remove tartar from the surface of the teeth, which hardens on the surfaces of the teeth and roots. These treatments help protect your smile and prevent tooth, gum, and bone loss.

What is dental scaling?

Scaling is a common deep cleaning method for proper dental hygiene that is difficult to achieve independently. Dentists use a scaler to scrape away all the plaque and tartar along your gum line.

Scaling and root planing in dentistry is also called deep cleaning. In this way, the teeth get rid of tartar (hardened mineral matter) that can stick to your teeth. If you have periodontitis (advanced gum disease), you may need these treatments. Using dental scaling removes the tartar that you see when you smile from the surface of your teeth. Root planing removes tartar from the roots of your teeth below the gum line.

Does scaling weaken teeth?

The answer is definitely “no”. It is a common myth that scaling weakens teeth.

Research shows that more than 40% of people believe that scaling can cause teeth to become brittle and sensitive. However, this belief is not true. Contrary to popular belief, scaling improves oral health.

When done properly, scaling removes elements that contribute to gum disease and other oral health problems.

When these elements are removed, a person may feel that their teeth are weakened, but this is due to plaque build-up.

Who does dental scaling?

Dentists and periodontists (gum disease specialists) provide treatments for gum disease. This procedure is usually performed by a dental hygienist. Dental scaling and root planing are done during a dental visit. You usually need more than one appointment to treat all your teeth.

Does dental scaling cause sensitivity?

Another common misconception is that scaling causes tooth sensitivity. When harmful elements are removed from your teeth, they are exposed to the oral environment.

Your teeth may be sensitive, but this is a temporary sensation that will gradually go away.

Will the gap between my teeth increase after scaling?

No, scaling does not increase the distance between your teeth. As gum disease worsens, tartar builds up in the space between the teeth. When dentists remove tartar, you may feel that the gap has widened.

Is dental scaling a painful procedure?

Dental scaling is a non-invasive and painless method. The only sensation you will feel will be the grinding of your teeth. It may not feel comfortable, but it is quite tolerable.

You can perform dental scaling without sedation or anesthesia. However, depending on your tolerance, your dentist may use some anesthetic to reduce discomfort.

Who needs teeth scaling and root planing?

Nearly half of people over the age of 30 have some form of periodontal disease. The risk of periodontitis increases with age. Almost 3 out of 4 adults over 65 years old have it.

Risk factors for periodontitis include:

  • diabetes
  • Family history of gum disease (genetics).
  • Health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
  • Hormonal changes related to oral health, such as pregnancy gingivitis or changes caused by certain types of birth control methods.
  • Improper installation of dental bridges or defective tooth filling.
  • Overbite or crooked teeth.
  • Poor oral hygiene.
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What happens before tooth scaling and root planing?

Periodontal disease usually does not cause pain. Your dentist may diagnose you with periodontitis during a dental examination. Dental X-rays may also be taken to check for problems such as cavities, tooth abscesses (tooth infections), and bone loss. If you have periodontitis, your provider will discuss treatment options with you. Scaling and root planning will be done during a future appointment.

What should you expect from dental scaling?

Scaling, or deep cleaning, goes below your gum line to thoroughly remove tartar from each of your teeth, including their roots. To minimize any discomfort or pain, the dentist in Kingston will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic, you will be awake during the treatment process.

What happens during dental scaling?

The following steps may be performed during scaling:

A vibrating metal tip is pulled over the plaque-absorbing chips from your teeth above your gum line. During the treatment, the water spray destroys the mass and removes the plaques from the gums.

A dental scaler uses a manual scaler (without electricity) and a tooth scraper (called a Cort) to remove small pieces of remaining tartar.

How many dental appointments do I need for dental scaling?

The total number of dental appointments you need for scaling depends on the severity of the disease and the preference of your specialist. Some providers treat one side of the mouth (both upper and lower teeth) in one session. You will need a second visit to treat the other side of your mouth.

Some dentists treat each quadrant of the mouth separately. For example, they only scan the lower right side of your mouth. At your next appointment, they may treat the upper right side of your mouth. With this treatment approach, you need four appointments.

What are the dangers of dental scaling?

Dental scaling and root planing can cause temporary discomfort during recovery. However, the overall risks are minimal. People with certain heart diseases or those with artificial heart valves may need to take antibiotics before any dental procedures. Antibiotics reduce the risk of bacterial infection. Ask your dentist and cardiologist if you need to take this preventive measure.

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