You must have heard about the importance of brushing and oil-pulling your teeth to maintain your oral health. But do you know what dental scaling is and why is it so important? This dental procedure helps remove plaque and tartar from teeth. Dr Suman Yadav, Head, Maxillofacial and Dental Department, Numed Hospital, Noida and Director, Healthy Dentzz and Professor, ITS Dental College, Ghaziabad, emphasises the importance of regular scaling every six months to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile.
Scaling, recognised as professional teeth cleaning, includes eliminating the accumulation of plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth, said Dr Yadav.
He added, “Plaque refers to a malleable, adhesive layer of bacteria that gathers on teeth, and if not properly cleaned, it can harden into tartar. These substances not only result in foul breath but also play a role in the development of more significant dental problems.” According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, plaque accumulation beneath a damaged filling can lead to fresh decay, while gum recession, where your gums have receded from the teeth, can also result in tooth root decay when the tooth roots are exposed.
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Importance Of Dental Scaling
Preventing Gum Disease
“Plaque and tartar are well-known culprits of gum disease. Gingivitis, the initial phase, presents with symptoms, such as swollen and bleeding gums. In the absence of treatment, it can advance to periodontitis, a condition that may result in the loss of teeth”, said Dr Yadav. Regular scaling aids in the prevention of gum disease by effectively keeping these harmful substances in check.
Enhancing Aesthetics
“The accumulation of plaque and tartar can result in tooth discolouration and unsightly stains. Scaling not only enhances the well-being of your teeth but also boosts their aesthetic appeal, contributing to a more radiant and self-assured smile”, highlighted Dr Yadav.
Maintaining Fresh Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, frequently arises due to the accumulation of bacteria in the oral cavity. Dr Yadav explained that scaling efficiently eliminates these bacteria, leading to a more pleasant breath.
Reducing the Risk of Tooth Decay
Dr Yadav said, “Plaque plays a key role in the development of tooth decay. Regular scaling guarantees that your teeth stay clear of this detrimental substance, decreasing the likelihood of cavities.”
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Promoting Overall Health
Dr Yadav highlighted, “There is a strong connection between oral health and overall well-being. Inadequate oral health has been linked to medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Routine scaling contributes to lowering these potential risks.”
Dr Yadav suggests following the American Dental Association (ADA) recommendation of scheduling professional cleanings every six months for the majority of people. This frequency enables dentists to continuously assess oral health and take swift action in the event of any problems.
Message From The Expert
“It's crucial to recognise that personal oral hygiene practices like regular brushing and flossing do not serve as a replacement for professional scaling. Despite their importance, these practices do not eliminate tartar, which only a dental professional can do”, highlighted Dr Yadav.
Dr Yadav emphasises the significance of seeking advice from a dentist to establish the most appropriate scaling timetable tailored to one's specific requirements. He added, “Certain individuals might necessitate more frequent scaling depending on their particular dental conditions.”
Bottomline
Dr Yadav concluded, “Scheduling regular dental scaling every six months is not just about aesthetics; it's an essential factor in maintaining oral health. Keep in mind that prioritising your oral health now can avert more substantial problems and guarantee a lifetime of bright, healthy smiles. Make sure not to postpone your next scaling appointment.”
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is shared by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to visit your dentist to avoid oral health problems later.]
