Abbey Dental Practice

Scale and Polish

Since our teeth are not always aligned, no matter how much we brush our teeth each day the toothbrush we use may not reach all our teeth, plaque builds over time and if we do not remove it by using good toothpaste, bacteria will grow and turn in to acids which causes decay. If we fail to remove plaque, it continues to build up over time and turns into calculus or tartar. Once it becomes calculus or tartar, it is very difficult to remove. Daily brushing is not sufficient to remove it. You need to consult a hygienist for its removal. Therefore a regular visit to the hygienist and this helps to prevent tooth decay, gum diseases and cavities.

The hygienist removes plaque, calculus or tartar by scaling and polishing your teeth. The hygienist will use an electric scaler to remove plaque and calculus then finish the cleaning using a set of hand instruments. These hand scalers are different in size and shape in order to reach all the teeth in detail. After the hygienist starts the dental polish treatment, he/she will use a rotating brush with a soft rubber cup and special gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth.

If you do not visit the hygienist regularly, it will be more difficult to remove plaque and calculus.