Dental Stone Cleaning and Professional Oral Care: How Often Should It Be Done?
Dental Scaling and Professional Oral Care: What Should It Be Done Often?
Dental calculus (tartar) is a bacterial plaque that accumulates on the surface of the teeth and hardens over time. This initially soft plaque combines with the minerals in saliva, hardens and cannot be removed by brushing. Dental tartar is not just an aesthetic problem; Gingivitis is a serious health problem that can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss. So, how does dental stone form? Why is dental scaling important? How often should it be done? In this article, I will explain the answers to all these questions and the importance of professional oral care.
What is Tartar and How is it Formed?
Dental tartar is formed as a result of the hardening of plaques accumulated on the tooth surface by combining with calcium and phosphate minerals in saliva. The formation process is as follows:
- Plaq Formation: After eating, a soft, sticky layer forms on the tooth surface. This layer consists of bacteria, saliva proteins and food residues.
- Mineralization: Plaque begins to harden by combining with the minerals in saliva within 48 hours.
- Dental Stone Formation: Within 10-14 days, the plaque completely hardens and turns into dental stone. It can no longer be removed by brushing.
Tartar can form above (supragingival) or below (subgingival) the gum line. Lower gum calculus is more dangerous because it accumulates in the gum pockets and leads to bone loss.
⚠️ Important: Dental tartar cannot be cleaned by brushing and flossing. Professional dental scaling must be done.
What is Dental Stone Cleaning (Determination)?
Descaling is the process of cleaning the tartar and plaque on the tooth surface by the dentist using special tools (ultrasonic scaler, hand tools). The procedure is generally comfortable and does not require local anesthesia. There may be slight sensitivity in the teeth after scaling, but this will pass within a few days. After the procedure, teeth become smoother and stains (tea, coffee, cigarette) are also removed.
How Often Should Dental Stone Cleaning Be Done?
The frequency of scaling varies depending on the patient's oral care habits, gum health and general health status:
- Healthy Individuals: Once a year is sufficient for scaling.
- Those with Gum Disease: Cleaning may be required every 3-6 months.
- Smokers: Smoking accelerates the formation of tartar. Cleaning is recommended every 4-6 months.
- Diabetics: Diabetes increases the risk of gum disease. Checking and cleaning may be required every 3-4 months.
- Those Receiving Orthodontic Treatment: It is easier for plaque to accumulate around the brackets. Cleaning is recommended every 3-4 months.
- Implant Patients: Cleaning should be done every 3-6 months to prevent the risk of peri-implantitis around the implant.
💡 Information: Dental scaling is the most effective way to protect gum health. Regular cleaning prevents gingivitis, bone loss and tooth loss.
Things to Consider After Dental Stone Cleaning
- Avoid very hot or very cold foods for the first 24 hours.
- Stay away from staining foods (tea, coffee, red wine, cigarettes).
- Use the desensitizing toothpaste recommended by your doctor for sensitivity.
- Take care of regular brushing and flossing.
- Reduce bacteria by using mouthwash.
- Do not miss your check-up appointment.
Prof. Dr. İbrahim Duran's Preventive Dentistry Approach
Prof. Dr. İbrahim Duran sees preventive dentistry as an integral part of the treatment. In his clinic, dental scaling is done precisely with ultrasonic devices and hand tools. It prevents gum diseases and tooth loss by instilling regular check-up and cleaning habits in its patients. The goal is to keep patients' natural teeth healthy for the long term.
📌 Conclusion
Dental scaling is indispensable for healthy gums and teeth. Professional cleaning at regular intervals prevents gum diseases and extends the life of natural teeth. At our clinic in Samsun, we protect your healthy smile with a special preventive dentistry program.
