What happens at a scale and polish appointment?

Dental cleanings involve removing plaque (soft, sticky, bacteria biofilm) and tartar (calculus) deposits that have built up on the teeth over time and are difficult to remove at home with brushing.

Your teeth are continually bathed in saliva which contains calcium and other substances which help strengthen and protect the teeth. While this is a good thing, it also means that we are prone to getting a build-up of calcium deposits on the teeth. This chalky substance will eventually build up over time and become difficult to remove with just brushing.

How long does a scale and polish last?

It is largely a preventative measure but can also be used to reverse or manage gum disease when already present. We recommend that all patients have this procedure every six months, or more frequently if you are in a higher risk group, such as if you are a diabetic or have active gum disease.