Air polishing
Air polishing, also known as AirFlow or pearl polishing, is a modern, non-invasive dental procedure that helps remove surface discoloration, stains caused by food and beverages (such as coffee, tea, and red wine), and soft plaque from the teeth. During the procedure, a fine stream of water, air, and a specialized cleaning powder is directed onto the tooth surface, gently yet effectively removing unwanted deposits.
When to see a specialist
- Surface stains and discoloration caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking.
- Soft plaque deposits that are difficult to remove with regular toothbrushing.
- A desire to restore the natural brightness and shine of the teeth.
- The need for thorough tooth cleaning before other dental procedures, such as fillings or teeth whitening.
- Achieving fresher breath by removing bacterial buildup.
- Helping to prevent gingivitis by removing plaque along the gumline.
- Cleaning hard-to-reach areas in patients with orthodontic braces.
Common symptoms
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Bad breath
Bad breath is a symptom in which a persistent unpleasant odor is emitted from the mouth, which may indicate problems with oral hygiene or diseases. -
Before other dental procedures
Your dentist has recommended professional teeth cleaning before fillings, crowns, teeth whitening, oral surgery or prosthetic treatment. -
Changes in your oral health
You experience redness, bleeding gums, or other symptoms that may indicate plaque-related irritation. -
Dental cavity
A dental cavity, or dental caries, is damage to the hard tissues of the tooth caused by bacteria and acids. It may lead to sensitivity, pain, and toot -
Desire to improve oral hygiene
You want to take your oral hygiene to the next level and ensure your teeth are as clean as possible. -
Plaque buildup
You notice a rough feeling on the tooth surface or visible plaque deposits, especially along the gumline or between the teeth. -
Tooth discoloration
Your teeth have become darker or show visible stains that cannot be removed with regular brushing. -
Tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is an uncomfortable or painful sensation in the teeth when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. -
Toothache
Toothache is a symptom that manifests as a sharp or throbbing pain in one or more teeth and may worsen when chewing or with temperature changes.
How to prepare for your appointment
- Bring your ID card or another form of identification with you.
- Write down or think through your main questions and expectations regarding the procedure.
- Inform your dentist about your health condition, allergies, and any medications you are currently taking.
- It is recommended to thoroughly brush your teeth before the procedure.
What to expect during your appointment
Consultation
We discuss the reason for your visit, your expectations, and your medical background. The dentist assesses the condition of your teeth and gums.
Preparation
If needed, your mouth is rinsed with an antiseptic solution. Lip and cheek retractors are placed to ensure comfort and protect soft tissues.
Cleaning procedure
The dentist uses a special device to direct a mixture of water, air, and cleaning powder onto the tooth surfaces. This gently removes stains and plaque.
Completion
After cleaning, the mouth is rinsed and the teeth are polished with a special paste to make the surface even smoother and help prevent new plaque buildup.
Aftercare recommendations
The dentist provides advice for ongoing oral hygiene and, if necessary, schedules a follow-up appointment.
Payment & Appointment Info
Prices
Tallinn
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 20 € |
| Teeth cleaning: removal of plaque and pigments Up to 60 minutes. | 111 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Teeth cleaning Removal of plaque and stains. | 68–111 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Teeth polishing with professional paste | 16 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Oral hygiene instruction and counselling | 23 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Hygiene instruction, cleaning and counseling for brace patients | 63–73 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Soda blasting for one dental arch (price depends on the condition of the mouth, if necessary, tartar removal will be added) The price depends on the condition of the mouth. If necessary, an additional charge applies for tartar removal. | 63–68 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Air polishing for patients with braces – one dental arch Tartar removal is added if necessary. | 73 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Tartar removal from one tooth | 12–14 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
Tartu, Kuressaare
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 13 € |
| Teeth cleaning: removal of plaque and pigments Up to 60 minutes. | 110 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Teeth cleaning Removal of plaque and stains. | 65–110 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Teeth polishing with professional paste | 16 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Oral hygiene instruction and counselling | 23 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Hygiene instruction, cleaning and counseling for brace patients | 60–73 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Soda blasting for one dental arch (price depends on the condition of the mouth, if necessary, tartar removal will be added) The price depends on the condition of the mouth. If necessary, an additional charge applies for tartar removal. | 60–68 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Air polishing for patients with braces – one dental arch Tartar removal is added if necessary. | 73 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Tartar removal from one tooth | 12–14 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
Pärnu, Kärdla
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| Visit fee Added to the appointment fee. | 13 € |
| Teeth cleaning: removal of plaque and pigments Up to 60 minutes. | 105 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Teeth cleaning Removal of plaque and stains. | 63–105 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Teeth polishing with professional paste | 16 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Oral hygiene instruction and counselling | 16 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Hygiene instruction, cleaning and counseling for brace patients | 45–50 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Soda blasting for one dental arch (price depends on the condition of the mouth, if necessary, tartar removal will be added) The price depends on the condition of the mouth. If necessary, an additional charge applies for tartar removal. | 53–60 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Air polishing for patients with braces – one dental arch Tartar removal is added if necessary. | 63 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
| Tartar removal from one tooth | 8–10 € A visit fee is added to the price. |
Referral
You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.
Clinics offering this service
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is air polishing painful?
The procedure is generally painless. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or a cold sensation, but it is usually temporary.
How often should I have air polishing done?
The frequency depends on individual needs and oral hygiene habits. It is typically recommended 1–2 times per year, but your dentist will give you a personalized recommendation.
Does air polishing whiten teeth?
Air polishing removes surface stains and restores the natural shade of the teeth, making them appear brighter. It does not change the natural color of the enamel like chemical teeth whitening does.
Is air polishing suitable for sensitive teeth?
Although the procedure is gentle, people with sensitive teeth may feel more discomfort. In such cases, it is important to inform the dentist, who can adjust the procedure or suggest alternatives.
What should I avoid after air polishing?
It is recommended to avoid strongly colored foods and drinks (coffee, tea, red wine, soft drinks, berries) and smoking for about 24 hours after the procedure, as the teeth are more prone to new staining during this time.
Does air polishing remove tartar?
Air polishing removes soft plaque and surface stains, but it does not remove hard tartar (calculus). Tartar removal requires ultrasonic cleaning. For best results, air polishing is often performed together with tartar removal in the same visit or after it.
Is air polishing suitable for patients with braces?
Yes, air polishing is especially beneficial for patients with braces, as it helps clean hard-to-reach areas around and between brackets where plaque easily accumulates.