Air-flow offers a high-tech alternative to the traditional ‘scale and polish’ treatment you would normally expect from your hygienist. Completely safe, chemical-free and actually more gentle on your teeth and gums than traditional cleaning tools, Air-flow combines air, water and a very fine bicarbonate powder into a focused stream that buffs away plaque and stains from your teeth and under the gum line.
Why we love using Air-flow
Gentle. Not only is Air-flow less abrasive to enamel and gums than traditional cleaning tools, but less scraping means less sensitivity as a result. Additionally, the fine powder particles used in the jet polish actually fill in microscopic gaps in your enamel, which also reduces sensitivity.
Efficient. Air-flow polishing can remove biofilm and plaque that even a hygienist can’t see, and can reach deeper into pockets under the gum line to gently and safely clean your teeth and gums better than they’ve ever been cleaned before. Airflow removes nearly 100% of bacteria, something no manual cleaning can hope to achieve.
Brighter results. Air-flow offers a superior clean than a scale and polish. It’s also a great way to kickstart a professional whitening treatment or to maintain your whitening once you’ve had it done.
Fast & fear-free. Patients often report that Air-flow is (almost) fun! Instead of having tools scraping away in your mouth, the gentle refreshing stream of pleasant-tasting polish is much less intimidating, so it’s great for nervous patients and children too. And because it’s more than three times as fast as a traditional scrape and polish, Air-flow means less time spent sitting in the dental chair.
Preventing problems before they become serious
They say that knowledge is power – so a big part of the hygienist’s role at Birdgate Dental is arming patients with the right information, tailored to meet their individual needs. The two main reasons teeth fall out are down to tooth decay and gum disease – but these are both entirely preventable if you take the following actions:
- Visit your dentist twice a year for check-ups – so they can spot and eliminate minor problems quickly and easily
- Visit your hygienist twice a year for a professional deep clean, which reaches areas the toothbrush may have missed
- Follow your hygienist’s advice on products and techniques for cleaning teeth at home
- Eat a balanced diet and limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks
Hygiene FAQs
What do I need to know about plaque and tartar?
When you let your regular brushing and flossing slide, a film of bacteria – plaque – builds up around the gum line, and this is the root cause of tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque needs to be brushed away daily, or it will harden into tartar. Together, they attack the tooth enamel, making gums and teeth vulnerable to disease and decay.
Can I do anything to prevent oral hygiene problems occurring?
Maintaining a rigorous cleaning programme at home is vital if you want to minimise hygienist appointments. Our hygienist will give you advice and tips not only about how to clean your teeth, but also about diet and general lifestyle.
Does it hurt to get a scale and polish?
Not usually, though if your gums are very sensitive the hygienist can use anaesthetic gel to alleviate any discomfort.
How often should I see my hygienist?
If you have good oral health, we generally recommend seeing the hygienist twice a year. If you’ve had dental implants or tooth restorations, you may be required to visit more frequently to ensure plaque is being kept under control effectively around your prosthetic restorations.
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