How do you choose between airflow vs scaling?

1. Plaque management
2. Removal of tartar
3. Cleaning below the gumline
4. Cleaning time
5. Aftercare

When researching different teeth cleaning methods, you might have encountered the terms Airflow treatment and dental scaling. These are teeth cleaning methods used by dentists to remove undesirable substances in your teeth such as plaque and tartar. This way, you can prevent cavities, tooth decay, and gum diseases! If you want to know more about airflow vs scaling, keep on reading.

Airflow treatment is the process of using high-pressurized air, water, and powder to get rid of biofilm and stain in your teeth. On the other hand, scaling is done by using a hand instrument or ultrasonic tool to remove plaque and tartar. Here are some of the things that might help you understand better.

Plaque Management

Plaque is the film of bacteria that produces acids after you eat. These can cause problems such as tooth decay and gingivitis when neglected. As plaque is constantly forming on your teeth, everyone has it to some degree. You’re more likely to get them when you eat sweet and starchy foods or smoke.

Other than regular brushing and flossing, professional teeth cleaning can also help you get rid of plaque. This can be achieved whether you opt for a scaling or Airflow treatment, although the latter is known to be faster and gentler because the tool won’t make direct contact with the teeth. It can also remove surface stains.

Removal of Tartar

When neglected, plaque can harden into tartar. Aside from being unsightly, these calcified deposits are unhealthy for your teeth and gums because they can compromise your enamel—or outer layer of the teeth. It also gives plaque more surface area to grow and causes problems such as cavities and gum disease. This can also cause aesthetic problems by absorbing stains.

While Airflow treatment can remove plaque and early calculus deposits, scaling is the recommended option for hard tartar. A scaling tool will be used by your dentist in oral to remove this substance from your teeth and under your gums

Cleaning Below the Gumline

Both plaque and tartar can form underneath your gum line. The bacteria in this can cause problems for your gums such as gingivitis and periodontitis. It can cause inflammation and bleeding if neglected. Depending on your situation, your dentist might recommend either an Airflow treatment or scaling to get rid of the substances below your gum line.

Airflow treatment can reach deep pockets up to 5mm. A perioflow extension nozzle can also be used for deeper cleaning. The benefit of Airflow is that it is minimally invasive because of the spray method. For the treatment of gum disease, your dentist might also use teeth scaling and root planing methods to concentrate on the deep pockets. Scalers and curettes will be used to get rid of the deposits in these areas. You might also need a local anesthetic if your case is severe.

Cleaning Time

Depending on the condition of your teeth and gums, the time it takes for your dentist to clean your teeth might vary. Some doctors would recommend combining traditional scaling methods with Airflow to get rid of all the plaque, tartar, and stain buildup in your teeth and below the gumline.

On its own, Airflow treatment might only take as fast as 20 minutes. Traditional teeth cleaning with the use of scalers can last between 30 minutes to an hour. If you have gum disease, you might need to return for more than one visit if the dentist performs a scaling and root planing procedure on you. This way, your gum pockets can be measured.

Aftercare

Airflow treatment is typically painless and fast. You might feel a slight pressure due to the warm stream of water and air, but it won’t be uncomfortable. Your dentist might recommend you minimize consuming staining foods to prolong the effects of the treatment.

After teeth scaling, your mouth might feel sore and sensitive. Your dentist can suggest a desensitizing toothpaste to help you deal with the slight discomfort and a prescription mouthwash to maintain the cleanliness of your gums.

But whether you just had an Airflow treatment or a scaling procedure, it is important to keep up with a proper brushing and flossing routine to prevent plaque and tartar from causing problems.

Key Takeaway

Airflow and scaling treatment can help keep your oral health in the best condition or treat problems such as gum disease. Your dentist will recommend the best option for your current situation. Just remember to do your part in keeping your teeth and gums clean at home. Other than that, schedule routine dental checkups so your dentist can spot problems earlier.

If you want to know more about airflow vs scaling, you can send a message here at Casipit Dental Group! We have branches in Metro Manila and Pangasinan, so you can schedule an appointment if you’re interested.