Most people think that following a good home care routine alone is key to maintaining good dental hygiene. However, brushing and flossing alone are not enough to remove the plaque and calculus that build up on your teeth over time.
It is recommended to go for a regular professional clean (also called a scale and polish) with your dental hygienist every 6 months. They are the experts in oral hygiene equipped with right tools and technology that will make your hygiene appointment comfortable all throughout.
During the appointment, your dental hygienist will discuss with you the condition of your teeth and gums, as well as ways to improve your home care routine. More specific hygiene tips are given to patients who are wearing braces and may be advised to visit more often than usual.
Going for a regular scale and polish not only keeps teeth and your gums healthy, but it also allows us to detect any dental problems early on and provide immediate intervention.
Our dental hygienists at Drs. Nicolas & Asp work alongside our dentists to make sure that if there are any dental issues, they are addressed by the right specialist.
Most children and adults benefit from a professional scale and polish every six months. However, if you have a higher risk of gum disease—for example, if you have uncontrolled diabetes, smoke heavily, wear braces, or are pregnant—your hygienist may recommend more frequent visits, typically every three to four months.
Your dentist will advise the most appropriate schedule based on your individual oral health needs.
During a scale and polish appointment, your dental hygienist will begin by assessing the condition of your teeth and gums. They will then use specialized instruments to gently remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains, followed by polishing to leave your teeth feeling smooth and looking clean. Your hygienist will also provide personalized advice to help improve your home care routine.
If any concerns are identified—such as early signs of cavities, gum disease, or issues with existing dental work—you will be referred to the appropriate dentist or specialist for further evaluation.
A scale and polish appointment is typically not painful, although some people with sensitive gums and teeth may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning process. Your hygienist will ensure your comfort throughout the appointment, and any discomfort can usually be managed with gentle techniques.
The duration of a scale and polish appointment can vary depending on the amount of buildup on your teeth and the specific treatment needed. On average, a routine scale and polish appointment may take between 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
Many dental insurance plans cover preventive services such as scale and polish appointments as part of their coverage. However, coverage may vary depending on your specific insurance plan.
If you require assistance navigating your coverage, please give us a call at 04 394 7777. We are more than glad to help.
At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our dental hygienists offer Guided Biofilm Therapy as a gentle, evidence-based approach to professional dental cleaning—designed to support long-term oral health while prioritizing comfort, precision, and patient experience.