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Teeth polishing is one of the stages of oral hygiene, which helps to smooth the surface of the teeth. As a rule, polishing is performed after sandblasting and allows to eliminate unevenness on the previously cleaned surface. As a result of the treatment, the teeth become smooth and shiny. What is tooth polishing and what are the results?
Teeth polishing – what is it?
Teeth polishing is performed by a dentist or a hygienist. It consists in spreading a paste with cleaning and polishing properties on the surface of the teeth. Then the teeth are cleaned with a dental brush or a rubber tip to smooth their surface. Polishing is also referred to by the term polishing.
Teeth polishing – preparation
Usually, tooth polishing is one of the final stages of oral hygiene. The full procedure begins with the removal of scale (scaling), then sandblasting, and finishing with tooth polishing. Finally, the tooth surface is protected by a fluoridation process.
Polishing is done on previously cleaned teeth. If necessary, the dentist may recommend the removal of tartar by ultrasound or the traditional method. Scaling is not always done, but polishing is usually preceded by sandblasting. During this treatment, deposits and unsightly discoloration are removed from the enamel surface. Prophylactic sandblasting prevents the growth of bacteria, gum disease and teeth.
The teeth cleaned during sandblasting are additionally polished. Polishing pastes allow for a satisfactory smoothing effect when applied to properly cleaned teeth.
- Also read: Dental hygiene – what is it and when to decide on it?
How long does it take to polish my teeth?
Teeth polishing treatment as a rule, it does not take more than a dozen or so minutes. It is not painful, but the person in charge should be informed of any sensitivity of the teeth and gums. This information is important before starting the procedure, especially if it is to include scaling and sandblasting.
If we go to the dentist’s office to complete the full dental hygiene package, all stages of the procedure, including polishing, may take an hour.
Or you can try the Vitamy Aurum Sonic Toothbrush with polishing function and polish your own teeth at home!
Recommendations after teeth polishing
After leaving the dentist’s office, follow the recommendations that a specialist should inform us about. They may depend on whether full hygienisation or only selected treatments have been performed. It is best to refrain from eating and drinking any colored beverages (tea, coffee, wine) for three hours. In the case of smokers, it is recommended to wait also for the next cigarette.
- See also: Dental fluoridation. When to perform, indications and side effects
Teeth polishing – price
Typically, tooth polishing is included in a broader hygiene package. Usually, we will pay 200-300 PLN for scaling, sandblasting and polishing, sometimes also with fluoridation. The price of the tooth polishing itself may range from 60 to 100 PLN.
Teeth polishing effects
Teeth polishing is useful as it allows you to effectively remove any residual discoloration and small particles of sediment that have remained on the enamel from previous treatments. As a result of polishing, the teeth become smooth and shiny, which has a particularly positive effect on the aesthetic appearance of white teeth.
On the surface polished teeth there are also no microscopic grooves or imperfections in which plaque could accumulate. As a result, impurities do not settle so easily, which helps to maintain the enamel in good condition. It should be remembered that polishing, scaling and sandblasting is only a supplement to proper oral hygiene. These treatments are not a substitute for good habits related to brushing your teeth – doing this activity often, long and carefully, as well as using dental floss.
When is tooth polishing performed?
Most often, tooth polishing is a complete sandblasting procedure. If it is necessary to remove residues of deposits, a paste with stronger polishing properties is selected. When the dentist is left with only smoothing, he will choose a substance that leaves the impression of smoothness, the enamel seems slippery to the touch.
It happens that teeth polishing is performed instead of sandblasting. Most often it concerns people with hypersensitivity of the gums, in whom the sandblasting substance could cause pain. Indication for polishing it also occurs when preparing the teeth for surgery.