Air Polishing with Ultrasonic Scaling: A Modern Approach to Dental Hygiene

Maintaining optimal oral health is crucial for overall well-being. While brushing and flossing are essential components of daily oral hygiene, professional dental cleanings play a pivotal role in preventing gum disease and tooth decay.

Air polishing in combination with ultrasonic scaling focuses on the meticulous removal of dental biofilm (plaque) from the teeth and gums. Biofilm is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that constantly forms on our teeth, especially when food particles mix with saliva. If left unchecked, biofilm can lead to various oral health issues, including cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis.

Quick Facts

  • Combines high-speed polishing with gentle air pressure to remove plaque and stains and achieve great results

  • Dye is applied (disclosed) to reveal plaque which we remove with our Woodpecker PT-B Air Polisher and Ultrasonic Scaler

  • Compressed air sprays powder and water onto the tooth surface and surrounding tissues

  • Technique is effective on implants and around orthodontic brackets

  • Ultrasonic scaling is superb for periodontal treatment, endodontic treatment, restoration preparation, implant procedures, and periodontal maintenance

What’s the Difference?

Traditional dental cleanings often involve scaling and polishing, but may not effectively remove all biofilm. Air polishing with ultrasonic scaling takes a more targeted approach. Here's how it works:

  1. Assessment: The dental hygienist begins by assessing your oral health, including the presence of biofilm and its location.

  2. Disclosure: A special dye is applied to your teeth, which harmlessly stains the biofilm, making it visible to both you and the hygienist. This step helps identify problem areas and allows for personalized treatment.

  3. Biofilm Removal: The hygienist uses specialized instruments, such as the Woodpecker PT-B Air Polisher and Ultrasonic Scaler, to gently and effectively remove the disclosed biofilm.

  4. Polishing: Once the biofilm is removed, the teeth are polished to remove any remaining stains and create a smooth surface that is less susceptible to biofilm accumulation.

 

Left: Before disclosing (applying dye)
Middle: After disclosing (applying dye)
Right: After GBT

 

The Benefits of Air Polishing with Ultrasonic Scaling

Ultrasonic scaling and air polishing offers several advantages over traditional dental cleaning methods:

  • More comfortable: It’s generally more comfortable than traditional cleanings, as it uses gentle air pressure and water to remove biofilm.

  • More effective: The use of disclosing agents and specialized instruments ensures that biofilm is thoroughly removed, even from hard-to-reach areas.

  • More personalized: It allows for a customized approach to dental hygiene based on your individual needs and oral health status.

  • More preventive: By effectively removing biofilm, air polishing helps prevent gingivitis and periodontitis, two common forms of gum disease.

  • Better stain removal: After treatment, teeth looking brighter and healthier.

The Woodpecker PT-B Air Polisher and Ultrasonic Scaler

Woodpecker PT-B air polisher and ultrasonic scaler

Our dental practice is proud to offer air polishing using the state-of-the-art Woodpecker PT-B Air Polisher and Ultrasonic Scaler. This innovative technology combines high-speed polishing with gentle air pressure to effectively remove biofilm and stains. The air polishing feature uses compressed air to spray a mixture of powder and water onto the tooth surface and into the gingival sulcus or periodontal pocket, ensuring thorough cleaning.

The Woodpecker PT-B is particularly well-suited for use on implant surfaces and around orthodontic brackets, where traditional cleaning methods may be less effective. Additionally, the ultrasonic scaler is a versatile tool that can be used for various dental procedures, including periodontal treatment, endodontic treatment, restoration preparation, implant procedures, and periodontal maintenance.

Is Air Polishing with Ultrasonic scaling Right for You?

Air polishing is a safe and effective option for most patients. However, it's essential to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist to determine if it is the right choice for your individual needs.

If you're interested in experiencing the benefits of air polishing with ultrasonic scaling, schedule an appointment today.

Christian Newman