Air polishing – is it effective, how much does it cost, and does it remove tartar?
Air polishing is one of the most commonly performed dental procedures, alongside scaling and teeth whitening. But what exactly is air polishing, and when is it worth having it done? How does the treatment work? What is the cost of air polishing, and are there any contraindications? You’ll find all the answers in this article.
What is air polishing?
Air polishing is a dental procedure that involves cleaning the teeth using a special suspension containing fine particles known as dental powder. The treatment improves oral hygiene and effectively removes plaque and surface stains, even in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
The substances used in air polishing are powerful enough to eliminate plaque and debris but gentle enough not to damage the enamel. Most commonly, the powder consists of sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda. Air polishing is considered a preventive treatment because it helps reduce bacterial buildup. It is often used as a follow-up procedure to scaling, which removes hardened tartar from the tooth surface.
When should you consider air polishing?
Air polishing is recommended when there is visible buildup on the tooth surface. It is especially suitable for individuals who are prone to plaque and tartar accumulation. The procedure is also ideal for patients who smoke, wear braces, are preparing for teeth whitening, drink large amounts of coffee, tea, or red wine, or have crowded or misaligned teeth that are difficult to clean.
How does the air polishing procedure work?
Air polishing is performed in a dental clinic using a specialized device called an air polisher. This tool generates a high-pressure stream of air, water, and dental powder that reaches deep into tight spaces, such as interdental areas and gum pockets, cleaning them thoroughly. The used powder is immediately suctioned away with a dental evacuator. After cleaning, the dentist polishes the teeth and applies a fluoride treatment to strengthen the enamel.
READ MORE: How to care for your teeth after air polishing?
How much does air polishing cost?
Air polishing is not reimbursed by the National Health Fund in Poland, meaning it is not included in the guaranteed dental services for insured patients. The cost of the procedure in a private dental clinic ranges from 80 to 150 PLN, depending on the dentist’s experience and the clinic’s reputation. It is recommended to undergo air polishing up to twice a year.
Are there any contraindications to air polishing?
Although air polishing is generally safe and painless, it is not suitable for everyone. Contraindications include pregnancy, gum disease, heart conditions, respiratory issues, oral inflammation, ulcers or wounds on the mucosa, peptic ulcers affecting the stomach or liver, chronic respiratory diseases, and allergies to any substances used during the procedure.
