An air polish uses a targeted jet of compressed air, water and specially formulated powder directed at the teeth to remove staining, plaque and calculus from the surfaces of the teeth, and underneath the gum line. A special air polishing dental handpiece is used to perform the treatment. The treatment can remove even stubborn stains from the tooth surface and helps to prevent tooth decay, bleeding gums, gum disease and tooth loss.

A scale & polish uses a hand scaler, and ultrasonic scaler where necessary, to remove deposits of plaque and calculus on your teeth and the gum line. The dentist then polishes the teeth using a special paste to leave them bright and shiny.

An air polish is more comfortable, quicker and more effective than a scale & polish due to the design of the air polish handpiece. The powder used in an air polish is also less abrasive than the paste used in a scale & polish. It is considered more suitable than a scale & polish for patients with more sensitive teeth and gums.

Teeth staining is very common, but some things can increase staining, including smoking/tobacco, coffee, red wine, curry, and a poor dental hygiene regime.

Yes, the powder used is also less abrasive than the paste used in a scale & polish. The treatment is pain-free and non-invasive. Your treatment at Hampton Dental Care will also be carried out by a GDC-registered professional.

This depends on the individual patients’ preference. Regular hygiene treatments help keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling fresh. They also help to prevent tooth decay, bleeding gums, gum disease and tooth loss. The procedures are completely safe, so more regular hygiene treatments will not harm your teeth or gums.