Air flow stain removal
Air polishing uses a pressurized stream of air, water, and fine powder to remove surface stain and soft deposits from teeth.
What is the direct answer?
Air polishing uses a pressurized stream of air, water, and fine powder to remove surface stain and soft deposits from teeth.
What does this question mean?
Air polishing is a professional cleaning method for extrinsic stain on enamel, especially pigment from coffee, tea, tobacco, or colored foods. It does not bleach the internal tooth color or remove hardened calculus.
What can you do next?
A hygienist checks the teeth, gums, restorations, and sensitivity first, then selects a compatible powder and controls the spray around the gumline. Suction, eye protection, and careful angling limit spray; remaining calculus may need ultrasonic or hand scaling.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination if stain returns quickly, a tooth has a dark spot within the enamel, gums bleed, or deposits feel hard. Pain, swelling, or a broken restoration needs assessment before cosmetic cleaning.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which powder is planned, whether it is compatible with my fillings, crowns, implants, or veneers, and whether the discoloration is surface stain or a change inside the tooth.
Frequently asked questions
Can home care replace a dental examination?
Home care can reduce irritation or plaque, but it cannot diagnose the cause or treat problems that require professional cleaning, restoration, or other clinical care.
What information helps at an appointment?
Describe when the symptom began, what triggers it, any bleeding or swelling, relevant dental work, medicines, and the care you have already tried.