The claim: Regular dental cleaning and scaling destroys tooth enamel“A smile is the best makeup a girl could wear,” Marilyn Monroe, one of the most beautiful women in history, was indeed right (as always). But there is more – a beautiful smile is not only an indicator of one’s personality, but also of one’s health. So what goes into creating a beautiful smile? Healthy teeth and gums. This is where things get interesting. Although dentists urge people to attend regular dental checkups, many are reluctant. A common concern: will regular dental cleaning and scaling lead to enamel damage and sensitivity?we asked Dr. Baiju Hariharanregistered dentist and member of Indian Dental Association, with 27 years of clinical experience, based in Haripad, Kerala.
Is it true that regular dental cleanings can damage tooth enamel?
The verdict: FALSE“One of the most common questions I get as a dental professional is, ‘Doctor, won’t the enamel wear down my teeth or cause sensitivity?’ said Dr. Hariharan in an interview with the Times of India. He agrees that it’s a real concern. but it is also wrong.“Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. It serves as a protective layer for your teeth, protecting the inner layers from decay, sensitivity and wear. In cases where we need to fit permanent teeth or crowns, a diamond is used to cut the surface,” he explained.Having your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist won’t harm your teeth, the doctor said. “Teeth cleaning, on the other hand, is done using an advanced device called an ultrasonic scaler. This instrument cannot create even the slightest scratch on the enamel or structure of your teeth. That’s the truth,” he added.Professional teeth cleaning is effective in removing plaque and preventing many diseases.
How often should you make a dental appointment?
Most people assume they need a dental checkup every six months. However, NHS UK says this can vary from person to person. Some people may not need to go as often and others may need more frequent checkups. Only your dentist can recommend how often. This depends on the state of your oral health.“The time between checks can vary from three months to two yearsdepending on how healthy your teeth and gums are and your risk of future problems,” the health service said.A recent study by researchers at Tufts University School of Dentistry found that approx One in three young adults skipped visits to the dentist the past year. “Young adults, aged 18 to 35, were more likely to report not having visited a dentist in the past 12 months. This is very concerning,” said Yau-Hua Yu, study author and associate professor of Periodontology at the School of Dentistry.The impact of poor oral health is beyond what most people assume. It is even linked to reduced life expectancy and other negative health outcomes, the researchers said.So the next time someone scares you with the old fable, show them your best smile and maybe enlighten them!Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.
