It's a dental service that's rarely covered by health insurance – and yet it's one that many dentists recommend. How effective is a professional teeth cleaning really in protecting against tooth decay or periodontitis? Experts are surprisingly divided on this issue. Berlin (dpa) – Professional dental cleaning is a common add-on service in dental practices, but some patients may wonder if it's worth the extra cost. A professional teeth cleaning is a step above your usual toothbrush and flossing routine, involving a more intensive procedure performed by specially trained staff. It includes removing deposits such as tartar and plaque from tooth and root surfaces, smoothing tooth surfaces, and cleaning the spaces between teeth. Finally, the teeth are fluoridated in gel or varnish form for protection against tooth decay. The aim is to remove harmful and cosmetically bothersome deposits that increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease such as periodontitis. Evidence on the effectiveness of professional dental cleaning is mixed. A review by the Cochrane research network in 2018 found that the benefits for people with good oral hygiene were not sufficiently proven. Studies have also yet to clearly prove that this treatment protects against tooth decay, gingivitis or periodontitis more than a dentist removing plaque and tartar – a process known as scaling – during a routine trip to the dentist, the review concluded. However, it may make a difference if a condition such as periodontitis is already present, according to the consumer advice centre. This can also make a difference in health insurance coverage. Despite scientific findings being lukewarm on dental cleanings, some dentist organizations are more enthusiastic in their support. "Most people may need their teeth cleaned every six or 12 months," says the Australian Dental Association. The German Dental Association says professional dental cleaning has a positive effect on oral hygiene. The association points to Swedish long-term studies dating back to the 1970s which, it said, showed that "with a prophylaxis programme with dental cleaning as a core service, tooth decay and periodontitis can be almost completely avoided for most people." Side effects during or after a professional dental cleaning are very rare, the German Dental Association says. Immunosuppressed people and those with cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders or allergies should inform practice staff in advance. Patients with very sensitive teeth or inflamed gums may experience pain. Whether or not you decide for a professional tooth cleaning, at home you should be brushing your teeth thoroughly twice a day for about two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Dental floss or interdental brushes can also help clean between your teeth. The following information is not intended for publication dpa mah yyzz a3 swe
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