What is Tartar Cleaning? What Should Be Considered?
What is Tartar Cleaning?
Tartar Cleaning can be defined as the process of removing plaque and tartar accumulated on the teeth. Plaque is a thin layer formed when bacteria in the mouth combine and adhere to the tooth surface. Over time, this plaque hardens and turns into tartar and cannot be cleaned by brushing teeth. Tartar can lead to gingivitis and tooth decay. Scaling is a procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist using specialized instruments. This helps to improve oral hygiene by maintaining the health of the gums.
Who is Suitable for Tartar Removal?
Scaling is generally recommended for individuals with plaque buildup and hardened tartar on the teeth. Tartar is more common in people who do not pay attention to oral hygiene, smokers or those who do not have regular tooth brushing habits. Since tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, cavities and bad breath, scaling can help prevent these problems. In addition, scaling is also suitable for people who suffer from bleeding gums, inflammation or discoloration of the teeth. While scaling is suitable for people of all ages, it should be performed by a dentist.
What Should Be Considered Before Scaling?
Scaling is an important procedure to maintain dental health and oral hygiene. However, there are some points to consider before this procedure. Here are the things you should consider before scaling:
- Oral Hygiene: Ensuring your oral hygiene by brushing your teeth regularly and flossing before scaling can help the process to be more effective.
- Comfortable Clothes: The cleaning process can often take a while, so wearing comfortable clothes can help you stay relaxed during the procedure.
- Food and Drink: Avoid heavy meals and avoid excessively caffeinated drinks before the procedure. This will keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Which Methods Are Used for Tartar Removal?
Tartar Removal is a procedure usually performed by a dentist and can be done in different ways. One of the most common methods is to break and remove tartar by vibration using ultrasonic devices. Ultrasonic cleaners loosen and drop tartar quickly, while protecting the gums at the same time. Another method is cleaning with manual instruments. In this method, the dentist carefully removes tartar with hand instruments. Laser scaling has also become a popular alternative. Laser treatment effectively removes tartar and plaque while not damaging the gums. Scaling is an important step in maintaining dental health and helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
What Should Be Considered After Tartar Cleaning?
Scaling is an important procedure to maintain oral health, but you need to take some precautions afterwards:
- Pay Attention to Oral Hygiene: Do not neglect brushing your teeth after scaling, as your teeth may be more sensitive. Brush and floss at least twice a day.
- Follow the Doctor's Recommendations to Manage Pain: Some people may be sensitive after the cleaning process. You can relieve this condition by using painkillers recommended by your doctor.
- Avoid Hot and Cold Foods: Avoiding hot and cold foods at a time when your teeth may be sensitive prevents you from experiencing pain or discomfort.
- Postpone Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can accelerate the growth of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the effectiveness of the cleaning. Therefore, avoid these habits for at least the first 24 hours.
- Don't Forget Regular Checkups: Visiting your dentist regularly after scaling will help you maintain your oral health.
These steps to be considered after scaling will help protect your oral health.
What is the Recovery Process After Scaling?
The healing process after scaling is usually quick and most people can return to their normal activities within a few days. There may be a slight tenderness, redness or swelling of the gums after the procedure, but these symptoms are usually temporary. It may take a few days for the gums to heal and it is recommended to avoid hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods during this period. Also, brushing and flossing can be continued, but it may be better to do it gently due to sensitivity. After scaling, attention to oral hygiene plays an important role in keeping teeth healthy. If there are persistent problems such as pain, swelling or bleeding, it is advisable to consult a dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pain after scaling is usually short-lived and mild. There may be sensitivity as the gums are cleaned of plaque and tartar during cleaning. This may be more pronounced, especially in people with receding gums or severe plaque accumulation on the teeth.
Although scaling is generally recognized as a procedure that improves dental health, in some cases improper application or excessive intervention can be harmful.
Scaling is a procedure that should usually be done professionally by dentists. Scaling at home is not effective and can even damage the teeth.