Dental Hygiene

🦷 Dental Hygiene: Overview

Dental hygiene focuses on preventing oral diseases, maintaining healthy gums and teeth, and improving overall oral appearance and function. Regular hygiene care helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss.

A dental hygienist or dentist provides these services in a clinic.

Close-up of a dental examination using dental tools for hygiene and care.

🪥 Key Services in Dental Hygiene

1. Oral Examination & Assessment

  • Checking for plaque, tartar, and early signs of gum disease

  • Evaluating oral hygiene habits and risk factors

  • Advising on brushing and flossing techniques

2. Teeth Scaling (Professional Cleaning)

  • Scaling removes tartar (calculus) and plaque buildup that brushing or flossing cannot remove.

  • Done using manual instruments or ultrasonic devices.

  • Removes stains from food, coffee, or tobacco.

  • Helps prevent gum inflammation (gingivitis) and periodontitis.

3. Teeth Polishing

  • After scaling, the teeth are polished with a rotating rubber cup and abrasive paste.

  • Smoothens tooth surfaces, making it harder for plaque to accumulate.

  • Enhances the appearance of teeth by removing superficial stains.

4. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

  • Strengthens tooth enamel

  • Protects against decay and sensitivity

5. Oral Hygiene Education

  • Teaching proper brushing and flossing techniques

  • Suggesting mouthwash, interdental brushes, or other tools

  • Diet advice to reduce sugar and acid intake

🧴 Benefits of Professional Dental Hygiene

  • Prevents gum disease and tooth decay

  • Removes tartar and plaque not accessible by brushing

  • Fresher breath

  • Brighter teeth and improved appearance

  • Detects early dental problems before they worsen

  • Reduces risk of systemic diseases linked to poor oral health, like heart disease and diabetes

⏱ How Often to Get Scaling & Polishing

  • Every 6 months is standard for most people

  • People with gum disease, heavy tartar, or braces may need it more frequently (every 3–4 months)

⚠️ Precautions

  • Some tooth sensitivity may occur after treatment (usually temporary)

  • People with severe gum disease or medical conditions should consult a dentist before scaling

  • Maintain regular brushing and flossing to maximize the benefits

🧾 Summary

Dental hygiene services like scaling and polishing are essential preventive treatments that remove tartar, smooth teeth, and promote gum health. Combined with proper daily oral care, they maintain a healthy, bright, and functional smile.

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