Air Polishing Biofilm Management
in Calgary
A gentle, comfortable way to remove bacterial buildup and stains from your teeth.
About Air Polishing
Air polishing is a modern approach to cleaning your teeth. Instead of relying only on metal scraping tools, it uses a gentle stream of warm water and a fine, non-abrasive powder to lift away bacterial buildup and surface stains. Many patients find it more comfortable than traditional scaling.
If you are looking for a gentler dental cleaning in SW Calgary, our team at West 17th Avenue Dental Care offers air polishing biofilm management as part of our general dentistry care. It is especially useful for patients with sensitive teeth, braces, implants or gum recession.
What Is Biofilm?
Biofilm is the sticky layer of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums every day. If it is not removed, it hardens into plaque and tartar and can lead to cavities, gum inflammation and bad breath. Brushing and flossing remove much of it, but a professional treatment reaches the areas that you cannot, such as between teeth, around dental work and along the gumline.
Air Polishing vs Traditional Scaling
- Comfort: air polishing is generally gentler on teeth and gums, with less scraping.
- Stain removal: the powder and water remove surface stains and leave teeth smooth.
- Hard-to-reach areas: the fine stream can reach around braces, implants and in tight spaces.
- Heavy tartar: hardened tartar may still need to be removed with scaling instruments. Your hygienist will use the right combination for your mouth.
It is an alternative to traditional scaling in many situations, and it can be combined with your regular Teeth Cleanings.
What Happens During Your Visit
Assessment. Your hygienist checks your teeth and gums and confirms that air polishing suits you.
Air polishing. A handpiece delivers warm water and fine powder to remove biofilm and stains.
Finishing. Any areas that need extra attention are cleaned and the teeth are rinsed.
Home care advice. We show you how to keep biofilm under control between visits.
Who Is Air Polishing Suitable For?
- Patients with sensitive teeth who find scaling uncomfortable.
- Patients with braces or clear aligners.
- Patients with dental implants.
- Patients with gum recession.
- Coffee, tea and red wine drinkers who want surface stains removed.
- Anyone who wants a gentler cleaning experience.
If you have more advanced gum problems, you may need a deeper treatment first. See Gum Disease Treatment. Your hygienist will confirm what is right for you.
Why Choose West 17th Avenue Dental Care
- More than 30 years serving Calgary families, with a clinic on 17th Avenue SW.
- A 4.9 Google rating from more than 200 reviews.
- A gentle approach for patients who dislike traditional cleanings.
- A multilingual team that speaks English, Mandarin, Taiwanese, Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu.
- Direct billing to most major insurance plans and the Canadian Dental Care Plan accepted.
- Open six days a week, with a free parking lot north of the building, accessible from 15th Street SW.
Cost of Air Polishing
The cost depends on the treatment your hygienist recommends and whether it is part of a regular cleaning visit. Call (403) 244-1124 for a quote and to check your insurance coverage. We bill most major insurance plans directly. You can read more in our Financial Options section.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is air polishing?
Air polishing is a gentle cleaning method that uses warm water and a fine, non-abrasive powder to remove bacterial buildup and surface stains from your teeth.
How is air polishing different from traditional scaling?
Traditional scaling uses hand or ultrasonic instruments to scrape away plaque and tartar. Air polishing uses a stream of water and powder, which is usually more comfortable. Heavy tartar may still need scaling, and your hygienist will use the right approach.
Does air polishing hurt?
Most patients find it comfortable, and many prefer it to traditional scaling. Let your hygienist know if you notice any sensitivity and we will adjust.
Can air polishing be used around braces and implants?
Yes. The fine stream of powder and water is well suited to cleaning around braces, aligners such as Invisalign and Dental Implants, where it can be hard to clean thoroughly.
Is air polishing suitable for everyone?
Air polishing suits many patients, but not everyone. Your hygienist will assess your teeth and gums and confirm whether it is right for you or whether another treatment is better.
Book Your Appointment
Ready for a Healthier Smile? New patients welcome, direct billing and 0% financing available. Call us at (403) 244-1124 or book online.