Enhance Oral Health with Scale and Clean in Joondalup

A dental scale and clean, often referred to as dental prophylaxis, is a professional teeth cleaning procedure performed by a dentist. It primarily aims to remove plaque and tartar on teeth, particularly in areas that are hard to reach with a regular toothbrush or floss. During this procedure, a dentist uses specific dental equipment to clean the tooth surfaces above the gum line and the spaces between teeth.

This routine treatment is important because it can prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. It’s a crucial part of your oral health care that keeps your teeth and gums in good condition.

The average frequency at which you should have a dental scale and clean varies based on your oral health needs. However, the general guideline suggests that most individuals should schedule these dental appointments every six months.

Those with specific dental problems or a higher risk of developing oral diseases may need more frequent dental visits. The dentist might recommend routine check-ups every three to four months.

Always heed the specific recommendations made by your dental professional. They understand your oral health needs and can tailor their recommendations to suit your needs.

Here are some common signs that suggest it might be time to schedule an appointment to see a scale and clean dentist:

• Discoloured teeth:
  If you notice a change in the colour of your teeth, it might be time for a cleaning to restore their natural appearance.
• Persistent bad breath:
  If you struggle with bad breath despite regular brushing and mouthwash use, it could indicate the presence of plaque and tartar buildup.
• Bleeding gums:
  If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, this is a common sign of gingivitis (gum inflammation), which can progress to more severe gum disease if not addressed promptly. Regular cleanings can help manage and prevent this condition.
• The buildup of plaque or tartar:
  Plaque biofilm that hardens into tartar cannot be dislodged with brushing and flossing alone. Tartar buildup at the gumline is a clear indicator that it’s time for a professional cleaning.

Even if you don’t have symptoms, visiting your dentist regularly, about every six months or as advised, is recommended. It essentially prevents potential oral health issues and maintains dental hygiene. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious consequences for your oral health, requiring more complex dental treatments. Please get in touch with our team of dentists at Joondalup City Dental if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above.

Yes, a professional dental cleaning can address bad breath by reducing bacterial growth in the mouth. Bad breath is caused by sulphur-producing bacteria that are usually seen in plaque. A professional scale and clean treatment allows for a thorough removal of plaque from your teeth and tongue. It reaches even the difficult spaces in your mouth that a toothbrush cannot access.

However, bad breath may also be a sign of other oral health issues, such as gum disease. In this case, additional dental treatment aside from scale and clean may be needed for efficient results.

If you’re experiencing bad breath, it’s a good idea to discuss this with your scale and clean dentist. At Joondalup City Dental, we can recommend appropriate treatment options based on your specific needs​.

Dental scale and clean procedures are generally not painful. However, patient comfort levels can vary depending on individual pain tolerance, sensitivity and the amount of tartar buildup. At Joondalup City Dental, we use several methods to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.

• Gentle technique:
  Dentists are trained to perform scaling and cleaning using techniques that minimise discomfort. They work carefully so that the cleaning is thorough without being overly aggressive.
• Local anaesthesia:
  Dentists may use local anaesthesia for patients with sensitive teeth or gums or in cases where extensive cleaning is needed. This numbs the area around the teeth being cleaned, significantly reducing any discomfort during the procedure.
• Ultrasonic instruments:
  Many dental clinics use ultrasonic instruments for scaling, which can be more comfortable than manual scaling. These instruments use vibration to remove tartar and plaque without the need for extensive scraping.
• Communication:
  Clear communication is important during the procedure. If you feel any discomfort, you can signal your dentist, who can adjust the technique or provide additional anaesthetic or comfort measures.
• Aftercare:
  After the dental treatment, we provide advice on managing any side effects that may occur, such as mild tooth sensitivity or gum bleeding. Recommendations often include using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle brushing techniques, and sometimes a mouth rinse to help soothe the gums.

If you are concerned about potential discomfort during the procedure, it is important to discuss this with your dentist beforehand. This way, they can provide a personalised approach and keep you comfortable.

Here are the key benefits of routine scale and clean procedures:

• Prevention of oral diseases:
  Plaque contains harmful bacteria, which increases the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, bad breath, and other oral issues. Undergoing routine teeth cleaning significantly reduces the likelihood of developing such problems, thus helping you maintain optimal dental health.
• Efficient cleaning:
  While brushing and flossing your teeth at home cleans them, there are areas in your mouth that these dental tools can’t reach. Getting your teeth professionally cleaned by a scale and clean dentist allows for a better and more thorough cleaning method. They use specific dental tools to efficiently remove plaque from between the natural teeth.
• Reduce tooth stains:
  The accumulation of plaque and tartar causes yellowish stains that make your smile look dull. A dental scale and clean help improve the appearance of your teeth, resulting in a brighter, more beautiful smile.
• Freshens breath:
  The buildup of bacteria and food debris can lead to persistent bad breath. Regular dental cleanings help remove these and keep your breath fresher.
• Prevents tooth loss:
  Regular scaling and cleaning help maintain strong, healthy teeth by preventing oral diseases. This preventative measure reduces the risk of tooth loss.
• Tailored dental hygiene advice:
  Regular visits allow dentists to provide personalised advice based on their observations of your oral hygiene habits. This helps you improve your home dental care routine.
• Promote a healthy smile:
  The removal of plaque and tartar during these procedures reduces surface stains and discolouration. This results in teeth that not only feel cleaner but also a smile that appears whiter and more radiant.

After a dental scale and clean treatment, proper aftercare is crucial to make your teeth and gums recover smoothly and maintain their health. Here are essential tips for caring for your teeth post-treatment:

• Manage discomfort:
  If you experience any sensitivity or discomfort following the cleaning, over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
• Soft diet:
  Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours to avoid irritation. If sensitivity persists, continue with soft foods for another day.
• Avoid certain foods and drinks:
  Avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages immediately after your treatment, as they can increase tooth sensitivity. Also, avoid hard, crunchy foods like popcorn, which can irritate the gums.
• Gentle oral hygiene:
  Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently to avoid aggravating your teeth and gums. If your gums are tender, you should avoid flossing for the first 24 hours, but after that, you can resume regular flossing.
• Good oral habits:
  Reduce your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and if you smoke, consider quitting, as it can increase the risk of gum disease.
• Regular check-ups:
  Continue to visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal oral health and prevent future issues.

During your consultation for a scale and clean in Joondalup, your dentist will provide specific aftercare instructions. This approach can help you prepare and set realistic expectations about your post-treatment care and keeping your teeth in optimal condition.

Scale and clean costs range between $350 and $400. It can vary widely, depending on various factors, including the dental clinic’s location, the amount of plaque and tartar buildup, and whether you have health fund cover.

Health funds often cover scale and clean costs, as they are usually included in many basic extra policies. It’s essential to check the specifics of your health fund policy to understand the dental cover details. This way, you will know if there are any necessary requirements. For instance, waiting periods or limits may be applied.

If you have more questions regarding scale and clean cost, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Joondalup City Dental. One of the friendly dentists in our clinic can provide a more specific estimate for your treatment. They can also provide further details about how you can use your health funds.