What is plaque?
Calculus is the solidified plaque adhering to tooth enamel and gums, which can result from poor oral hygiene habits. This hard, yellowish or brownish deposit can contain bacteria that can cause gingivitis and other dental problems.
How do I know if I have calculus?
Calculus is often noticeable at the base of the teeth, especially on the inner surface of the lower incisors, where it can easily build up. It can be felt as a firm, rough surface on the tongue and can be recognized by signs of gingivitis such as redness, swelling or bleeding.
Why is it necessary to remove calculus?
Calculus removal is crucial to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Removing deposits reduces the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis (periodontal disease), which can lead to tooth loss. It also improves your overall oral hygiene and helps to preserve your natural smile.
What will happen the first time?
On your first visit, your dentist or dental hygienist will carry out a health check to assess the amount and location of tartar, and then discuss the problem you are experiencing.
What are the steps involved in plaque removal?
Calculus can only be removed under professional conditions using specialized instruments.
Dental hygiene treatment is basically a two-part process:
- the removal of calculus (depuration)
- polishing
The removal of plaque is done using an ultrasonic instrument that cleans the tooth surface gently and effectively. It does not damage the gums, but the ultrasonic vibrations it generates quickly break down tartar and remove dental plaque adhering to the teeth.
After plaque removal, salt polishing is used to remove discoloration for a more beautiful aesthetic improvement.
Then, using a soft-bristled polishing brush and polishing paste, we polish the surface of the teeth smooth.
Calculus removal is usually done in one session. In cases where the patient has a lot of tartar build-up or in areas that are very sensitive to removal, the procedure is performed in two sessions.
Following the treatment, the dental hygienist will advise the patient on good oral hygiene practices, including proper brushing, flossing and flossing brushing to minimise the chance of tartar re-accumulation in the future.
How much does the treatment cost?
Scaling in our practice costs 44 000 HUF, which includes biofilm therapy.
Dental specialist
Renáta Horváth
Dental hygienist and senior dental assistant
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How often do I need to have a dental scaling treatment?
The frequency required varies from person to person, usually once or twice a year is recommended, but for those who are more prone to rapid plaque formation, more frequent brushing may be necessary.
Is the scaling procedure painful?
Scaling can usually be performed with minimal discomfort and, if necessary, local anesthetic can be used to reduce pain.
How can I prevent plaque build-up?
The best method is regular and thorough brushing, flossing and the use of alcohol-free mouthwashes, as well as regular dental check-ups.
Are there any risks associated with dental scaling?
When performed by a qualified professional, dental scaling is a safe procedure. Rarely, there may be gum irritation or tooth sensitivity, but these are usually temporary.
How long does it take to remove plaque?
The duration of the procedure depends on the amount of tartar, but usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour.
Can I eat or drink immediately after the removal?
Yes, but you should avoid foods and drinks that are too hot, too cold or have sharp edges for a few hours after the procedure to avoid irritating sensitive areas.
Why can tartar become yellow or brown?
The color of plaque may depend partly on dietary habits (e.g. coffee, tea, red wine) and smoking, which can affect the color of plaque before it solidifies into tartar.
Does dental scaling prevent gum disease?
Yes, calculus removal reduces the risk of gingivitis and more serious periodontal disease by removing the deposits that harbor bacteria.
Can children also develop calculus?
Yes, children can also develop calculus, although usually less often and in smaller amounts than adults.
Is there a minimum age for plaque removal?
There is no minimum age limit for tartar removal; the procedure can be performed whenever the dentist/dental hygienist deems it necessary, regardless of the patient’s age. As tartar can develop in childhood, it is important that children have regular dental check-ups.