Scaling and Polishing

ROUTINE & PREVENTIVE DENTAL CARE

Scaling is a routine dental procedure that removes hardened plaque, known as calculus, which can lead to tooth damage and gum disease. The treatment is typically followed by polishing to smooth the tooth surfaces and enhance overall cleanliness.

Why Should You Get Your Teeth Scaled and Polished?

Harmful bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum inflammation thrive in dental plaque and calculus that build up around the teeth and beneath the gums. While daily brushing and flossing can remove most plaque, some residue often remains and hardens into calculus, which can only be removed through professional dental cleaning.

A routine scaling and polishing treatment effectively eliminates plaque, calculus, and surface stains, helping to restore the brightness and freshness of your smile. This procedure also gives us the opportunity to closely inspect your teeth for early signs of issues such as leaky fillings or small cracks that may require attention. When performed regularly as recommended, scaling and polishing is a gentle, straightforward process that takes only a few minutes but plays a crucial role in maintaining your long-term oral health.

The Process of Scaling and Polishing

During a routine dental visit, the dentist will begin by examining your overall oral health, followed by a thorough scaling and polishing of your teeth.

Scaling involves the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from around the teeth and along the gum line using an ultrasonic cleaning device. If not removed, this buildup can harbor harmful bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

In some cases, a more intensive cleaning—known as root planing—may be necessary. This involves using fine hand instruments to remove tartar from the root surfaces of teeth affected by gum disease. By eliminating the bacteria deep within gum pockets, this procedure promotes healing of the surrounding tissues. To ensure your comfort, a local anesthetic will be administered when deeper cleaning is required.

Once scaling is complete, the teeth are polished to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel. This is done using either a rotating brush with a special polishing paste or an air-powder spray for more stubborn stains. The result is a clean, smooth, and glossy finish that not only enhances your smile but also makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene at home.

Frequently Asked Question

How Often Should I Get Scaling and Polishing For My Teeth?

The frequency of scaling and polishing depends on your individual oral health and lifestyle factors. As a general guideline, we recommend visiting every 6 months unless your dentist advises otherwise. Certain factors may require more frequent cleanings, including:

Smoking
Diabetes
Staining from tea, coffee, or wine
A history of gum disease or tooth decay
Persistent bad breath

Do I Still Need Scaling and Polishing If I Brush and Clean My Teeth Well?

Yes! Even dentists need regular scaling and polishing.

Despite thorough brushing and flossing, there are always hard-to-reach areas where plaque can build up. Once plaque hardens into tartar, brushing and flossing won’t be enough to remove it, and scaling is necessary. However, maintaining good brushing and cleaning habits can make the scaling and polishing process quicker and more efficient.

Does The Ultrasonic Scaler Sound Scary, and Does It Harm My Teeth and Gums?

The high-pitched sound of the ultrasonic scaler can seem intimidating, but it’s actually a very gentle tool. The vibrating, rounded tip dislodges tartar without damaging your teeth. It also releases a cooling mist of water to wash away the plaque and tartar during the process.

Is Scaling and Polishing Painful?

When done regularly, scaling and polishing should cause minimal discomfort, and most people find it painless. However, if there is deep tartar buildup, sore gums, or sensitive tooth surfaces, some discomfort may occur. If necessary, a local anesthetic can be applied for your comfort, and in certain cases, the cleaning may be spread over several visits to make the process more comfortable.