Scaling & Polishing
Professional teeth cleaning to remove stubborn plaque, tartar, and stains for a fresh, healthy mouth.
What is Scaling & Polishing?
Scaling and polishing is a professional dental cleaning procedure designed to remove built-up plaque, hardened tartar (calculus), and external surface stains from your teeth. It is the cornerstone of maintaining healthy gums and preventing gum disease.
Who Needs It?
- Patients with bleeding or swollen gums
- Those suffering from persistent bad breath
- Patients diagnosed with early gum disease
- Everyone, as part of routine preventive care
The Cleaning Procedure
Our gentle and thorough cleaning process ensures your mouth feels incredibly fresh and healthy.
Ultrasonic Scaling
A specialized ultrasonic scaler is used to gently and effectively break down and remove hardened plaque (tartar) from above and below the gumline.
Fine Hand Scaling
Precision instruments are used to carefully remove any remaining stubborn deposits in hard-to-reach areas between the teeth.
Prophylaxis Polishing
A rotating brush and gritty toothpaste are applied to polish the teeth, removing surface stains and leaving them smooth and bright.
Post-Cleaning Care
- Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss regularly, at least once a day, to remove plaque from between your teeth where your brush can't reach.
- Avoid consuming heavily staining foods or beverages (like tea or coffee) immediately after the polishing procedure.
- Schedule your next professional cleaning in 6 months to maintain optimal gum health.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this is a common myth. Scaling removes the tartar that is already damaging your gums and bone. Removing this harmful buildup actually allows your gums to heal and reattach firmly to the teeth. If teeth feel slightly loose afterward, it's because the tartar that was holding them rigidly (and destructively) together has been removed.
Routine scaling and polishing is generally painless. If you have sensitive teeth or inflamed gums, you might experience mild discomfort. We are very gentle, and we can use a numbing gel or local anesthesia if needed to ensure your complete comfort.
For most people with healthy gums, we recommend a professional cleaning every 6 months. If you have a history of gum disease, smoke, or are prone to heavy tartar buildup, we may recommend visiting every 3 to 4 months.