When visiting your family dentist for a routine teeth cleaning and general oral exam, they may recommend dental scaling as a follow-up procedure. If you're unfamiliar with this treatment and what the process entails, here's a brief guide to review. 

What Is Dental Scaling?

Dental scaling is a special process and technique dentists use in order to remove extensive plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line. A scaler is an ultrasonic instrument that will also remove any biofilm that's built up on teeth and underneath the gums. In essence, this nonsurgical procedure is referred to as a deep cleaning.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Scaling?

During your routine teeth cleaning, your dentist will evaluate the overall health of your teeth and gums. When there is extensive plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line, odds are dental scaling will be necessary. Generally speaking, if you have red, bleeding, or inflamed gums, tooth sensitivity, visible pockets developing between your teeth and gums, receding gums, loose teeth, chronic bad breath, and visible pus, you may be a candidate for this treatment. 

What Are the Benefits of This Procedure?

Dental scaling eliminates plaque, tartar, and bacteria from hard-to-reach places. By undergoing this treatment, you'll restore the overall health of your teeth and gums. You can reduce the chances of tooth decay and you'll stop the progression of gum disease. With gum disease rectified, you won't have to worry about pain while chewing, bad breath, receding gums, or bacteria leading to the need for tooth extractions and dental implants in order to restore your smile. Immediately following the procedure, your mouth may be sensitive. Sticking to a soft diet and taking it easy for a day or two should help with healing. Afterward, patients that maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice a day as well as seeing the dentist every six months, will be able to enjoy better oral health moving forward.

If you're looking for a friendly family dentist that offers state-of-the-art oral care in a lighthearted environment, Gleason Dental Clinic is the practice for you. Located in the heart of Beatrice, NE, this office has served residents across Gage County for over four decades. To schedule your next teeth cleaning, call today at (402) 228-3119. For more information on their specialties and commitment to healthy, beautiful smiles, visit their website.