What is Scaling and Polishing?
Scaling is a professional method of removing tartar using hand and power-driven instruments. It is a non-surgical procedure that meticulously removes the tartar buildup and flushes the bacteria out. In addition to the tartar and bacteria, scaling also effectively removes the superficial stains like those caused by smoking or caffeine.
Polishing is a procedure that is recommended after the scaling. It removes any remaining stains after scaling, smoothens the tooth surface, and brings out the natural color of the teeth.
How often should you get scaling done?
Individuals with healthy teeth and gums only need a regular dental checkup and cleaning twice a year; however, depending on the severity of your periodontitis, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing, also known as a deep cleaning, more often.
Will my teeth get sensitive after scaling?
In certain cases teeth may get sensitive post scaling. This is completely normal and the sensitivity should subside after a few days, using a fluoridated tooth paste will help with this. The feeling of having gaps between your teeth will pass as well. This sensation is because the tartar between the teeth has been removed.
What is Teeth Whitening or Bleaching?
Teeth Whitening or Bleaching helps to lighten teeth by removing stains. Its a great way to get rid of discoloration and enhance the overall appearance of you teeth. However, it is important to note that whitening is not permanent. The bleaching effect typically lasts for 4-6 months depending on habits like smoking, caffeine, tea and wine intake.
What is a cavity?
Cavities, and are also known as dental caries/decay, cavities grow deeper and bigger if not treated at their initial stages. If you have suspect you have a cavity, it is very important for you to visit your dentist for a consultation and to evaluate if they need to be treated.
What are the symptoms of Dental Caries?
At their initial stages, cavities do not have very evident symptoms. In fact, most patients do not have symptoms at all. The symptoms entirely depend on the location and extent of the cavities. Hence, it is very important to come in for your regular dental visit once every 6 months. As the decay increases in size, the following symptoms are seen: – Toothache – Sensitivity – Mild to sharp pain on eating something sweet, hot or cold – Pain on biting – Visibly large brownish- black holes
How is a filling done?
Decayed tooth structure is removed with a high speed drill, sometimes under Local Anesthesia. Once cleaned, tooth-colored filling material is placed into the cavity. The surface is then polished to make it smooth and match with the natural surface of the tooth.
Are fillings painful?
Small, shallow cavities are not usually sensitive during the filling. In case of deep decay or any sensitivity, local anesthesia is provided, to ensure a painless procedure.
For how long do fillings last?
With proper care and maintenance, fillings can last for many years. Recent studies have indicated that an average life of a dental filling is 7-10 years. However, many patients have successful fillings for much longer than that.
How to prevent the occurence of cavities?
- You must brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoridated tooth paste. Flossing is essential after brushing to prevent accumulation of food in between teeth. Make sure you rinse your mouth with water after every meal or snack.
- Use of a fluoride mouth wash twice daily after brushing can aid in added protection against tooth decay.
- Visit your dentists at least once every 6 months for a complete clinical check-up and teeth cleaning to detect tooth decay at an incipient stage.
- Dental sealants can be applied to seal the grooves where food can get trapped easily. This helps in preventing tooth decay.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration of the mouth. A dry mouth is more susceptible to develop dental caries.
- You must include fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese, unsweetened tea or coffee in your diet. Dairy products, almonds contain high levels of calcium which is good for your teeth. Avoid soda, added sugar and junk foods.
- Chewing sugar free gums can help you fight plaque as they contain Xylitol. Xylitol stimulates saliva which aids in keeping our teeth clean.
What are the different types for crowns ?
Based on the material used, crowns can be of the following types:
- Full Metal Crowns – These are made entirely of Stainless steel. They are mostly used after root canal treatment in the case of baby teeth (puplpectomy)
- Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM) – These crowns are tooth coloured on the outside, fabricated over a metal base.
- Zirconia/E-Max Crowns – These are highly aesthetic crowns used mainly in the restoration of anterior teeth. They are completely tooth coloured with no metal base.
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