Scaling & Polishing

One of the most common causes of gum disease is the build-up of plaque bacteria. Brushing twice daily is usually the best way to remove it, however, no matter how well you clean your teeth, hard-to-reach areas are always tricky to keep clean. Over time, these areas will develop a hard, crusty deposit known as tartar from the accumulation of plaque bacteria. Tartar is impossible to remove with just brushing alone and, if not removed, could lead to gum disease.

To prevent this and to reduce your risk of gum disease, Dr Chalita le Roux recommends that you come in for a professional clean known as a scale and polish. A scale and polish leave the surface of your teeth clean and smooth so that bacteria cannot stick to them, increasing the chance of keeping your teeth clean for longer.

The first ‘scrape’ stage begins with the removal of plaque and tartar deposits. Specialised handheld instruments are used to get rid of any stubborn remains. The next step is to ‘polish’ the teeth so that the surface feels smooth. Polishing also leaves teeth brighter and shinier while protecting teeth against further plaque build-up.

The benefits of a scale and polish

Aside from removing plaque build-up and reducing the risk of gum disease, there are a few more benefits of getting a professional clean:

• No more bad breath: Not only is tartar the leading cause of gum disease but it can also contribute to bad breath. A scale and polish is an excellent way to have fresh breath again.
• Good oral hygiene = good overall health: Many studies have shown that looking after your oral health can significantly reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
• Saves you money: Regular professional cleaning could prevent costly dental procedures in the future, such as fillings, crowns and root canal treatments.