Teeth polishing, or prophylaxis, is
a regular dental practice conducted by a dental hygienist or dentist that
involves teeth cleaning. This is a process of cleaning the surfaces of the
teeth through the elimination of plaque, tartar (calculus) and stains that have
settled on them. Plaque is a bacterial stain on teeth that forms a glue-like
film and can harden to become tartar. A professional cleaning involves special
instruments that can successfully eliminate these deposits and then polish the
surfaces of the teeth so that they become smooth and plaque-free. This regular
practice is the key element of healthy oral health.
Indications of Teeth Cleaning and Polishing:
● Plaque and Tartar Deposits: No
matter how well one brushes and flosses daily, there will be some residue of
plaque and tartar buildup. These hardened deposits need a professional cleaning
to remove them, and they cannot be removed at home.
● Gum Disease Prevention: The plaque
and tartar bacteria can attack the gums (gingivitis), which is the initial
process of gum disease. Cleanings are essential in eliminating these bacteria
and halting their progression to more significant periodontal disease.
● Diagnosis of Stains: Coffee, tea,
tobacco and other food and liquids build up stains on the tooth's surface.
These are some stains that the polishing part of the entire cleaning process
removes, leaving a more beautiful and sparkly smile.
● Bad Breath (Halitosis): Bad breath is not a rare symptom of
the accumulation of plaque and tartar, a medium in which odorous bacteria
survive. Professional cleaning is the most effective way to remove these
deposits, removing the source of the bad breath and freshening the breath.
Impacts of Teeth Cleaning and Polishing:
● Cavity prevention: Teeth cleaning
helps to get rid of plaque and tartar, the most common causes of tooth decay,
reducing the risk of cavity development.
● Better Gum Health: Bacteria and
other irritants on the gum line are removed, thus alleviating and reversing
gingivitis and achieving healthier, stronger, less inflamed gums.
● Fresher, Brighter Smile: The
polishing process is done very well to remove the teeth' surface stains, giving
them a cleaner, brighter appearance. It is also responsible for creating fresh
breath and a more confident smile.
● Prevention of Dental Health Problems: The dentist also
actively examines the mouth during a visit, where a cleaning is done. This
enables problems such as the development of cavities, worn fillings, or any
signs of oral cancer to be detected early and effectively treated.