Common Treatments Explained

What is scaling and polishing?

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Short answer

Scaling and polishing is a routine professional cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and along the gumline, followed by polishing to smooth the enamel. It's a preventive treatment, generally recommended every six months, rather than a fix for existing decay or gum disease.

About this answer: Prepared by the AllSmiles Dental Editorial Team for general information. Your dentist can advise you based on an examination and your individual needs.

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What does fluoride treatment do for teeth?

Fluoride treatment strengthens tooth enamel and helps it resist acid attacks from plaque bacteria, which can slow down or even reverse the very earliest stages of decay. It's commonly applied during routine checkups, particularly for children and anyone at higher risk of cavities.

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What is a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment removes infected or inflamed tissue from inside a tooth's nerve chamber, then cleans and seals the space to stop the infection from spreading. It's typically needed when decay or a crack has reached the tooth's inner pulp, and it's aimed at saving the natural tooth rather than extracting it.

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What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used after a root canal, on a heavily decayed tooth, or to protect a tooth that has cracked.

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