Dental scaling is one of the dental services for maintaining oral health and preventing serious issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. In this article, we will explain how dental scaling works, its benefits, and answer three key questions: Does dental scaling help reduce systemic diseases? How does scaling reduce the risk of heart disease? And what are the best practices for maintaining oral health after scaling? Read on to find out how you can preserve your oral and overall health in the best possible way.
FAQ:
- What is dental scaling?
Dental Scaling is a professional cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and under the gums, helping to prevent gum disease.
- Can dental scaling help prevent heart disease?
Yes, regular dental Scaling can reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing the spread of oral bacteria into the bloodstream, which can cause arterial blockages.
- Is dental scaling painful?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during dental scaling, but sensitivity can vary depending on the condition of the gums and teeth.
- How often should dental scaling be done?
Dental scaling should be performed only by routine every six months dental visits or as recommended by your dentist, especially if you are at risk for gum disease
What is Dental Scaling and Why is it Important?
Dental scaling is a professional procedure performed by dentists to clean plaque and tartar that build up on teeth and under the gums. Microbial plaque, formed from bacteria and food particles, if not removed in time, can turn into tartar. This hard tartar causes gum inflammation and, over time, can lead to gum disease, which, if untreated, may result in tooth loss.
Moreover, dental scaling is not just for cosmetic purposes; it also impacts your overall health. The procedure plays a vital role in preventing some systemic diseases such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Research has shown that regular dental Scaling can improve general health and prevent serious heart-related problems.
Does Dental Scaling Help Reduce Systemic Diseases?
Dental scaling can have a direct effect on reducing systemic diseases. Recent research has shown that oral diseases, such as gum inflammation, can be linked to systemic conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a set of conditions that include high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, abdominal obesity, and lipid disorders, all of which increase the risk of heart disease.
People who undergo regular dental scaling are better able to control their blood sugar and prevent the increased risks associated with metabolic syndrome. A study conducted in 2024 revealed that those who regularly perform dental Scaling have a lower risk of developing metabolic syndrome and its related problems.
How Does Dental Scaling Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease?
The relationship between oral health and heart disease has been highlighted in scientific research for some time. Bacterial plaques that accumulate on teeth can damage the gums and eventually enter the bloodstream. These bacteria can accumulate in the arteries, increasing the risk of diseases such as peripheral artery occlusive disease (PAOD).
According to a study conducted in 2022, dental Scaling can reduce the risk of PAOD. This condition is commonly seen in people over 65 and is closely associated with inflammation caused by oral bacteria. Regular scaling can help prevent inflammation and blockages in the arteries.
Best Practices for Maintaining Oral Health After Scaling
After undergoing dental Scaling, special care is required to ensure that your teeth and gums remain in optimal condition. These care practices include:
1. Regular and Proper Brushing
It is better to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two-three minutes with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Regular brushing prevents the formation of new microbial plaques.
2. Using Dental Floss
One of the most important methods for maintaining healthy teeth after scaling is the use of dental floss. Flossing helps remove food particles and plaques that are lodged between the teeth.
3. Using Antibacterial Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwash can reduce bacteria in the mouth and prevent the formation of new plaques. They must only prescribed by dentists, according to patient condition.
4. Maintaining a Healthy Diet
Consuming soft diet and foods rich in sugars and processed carbohydrates can lead to new plaque formation. It is best to include healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products in your diet.
5. Regular Dental Checkups
You should visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and if needed dental scaling. This helps prevent serious problems.
How to Get the Best Dental Services
In this article, we explained how dental scaling benefits both your oral and general health and answered three key questions: its link to reducing systemic diseases, lowering the risk of heart disease, and the best practices for maintaining oral health after scaling. If you want healthy and bright teeth, you should have appropriate and qualified dental radiographs , you can use the professional services of Dr. Boushehri. Schedule an appointment now and benefit from our professional oral and maxillofacial imaging services.