Scaling & Polishing

 

Regular brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining oral hygiene, but they may not be enough to remove all plaque and tartar buildup. Scaling and polishing is a professional dental cleaning procedure designed to remove hardened deposits, prevent gum disease, and keep your teeth feeling smooth and fresh.

Scaling targets plaque and tartar along the gum line, while polishing removes surface stains for a cleaner, brighter smile. Routine dental visits for scaling and polishing help maintain overall oral health and prevent issues like cavities and bad breath, keeping your teeth and gums in optimal condition.

Scaling and polishing symbol

Why isn’t regular brushing and flossing enough?

Despite our best efforts at regular brushing and flossing, bacteria can still get stuck around teeth and beneath gums.

Regular and professional scaling can help to prevent oral issues such as gum disease, gingivitis, bone loss, halitosis (bad breath), and even tooth loss. Polishing with a special paste helps to remove stubborn surface stains to keep your teeth sparkling clean.

Why Do You Need Scaling and Polishing?

Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and bacteria can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, leading to potential oral health concerns. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed through scaling and polishing.

This procedure helps prevent common issues such as gum inflammation, bleeding gums, and bad breath. By removing these deposits, scaling reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease, while polishing smooths the enamel to minimise further plaque buildup. Going for regular sessions ensure clean teeth, fresh breath, and a healthy smile.

Benefits of Scaling and Polishing

Prevents Gum Disease

Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation, potentially causing gingivitis and more severe gum disease. Severe gum disease affects the underlying bone support of teeth, causing teeth to loosen. Regular scaling and polishing reduces this risk and keeps your gums healthy.

Fresher Breath

Bacteria trapped in tartar contribute to persistent bad breath. A professional cleaning helps eliminate odour-causing bacteria, keeping your breath fresh and clean.

Removes Surface Stains

Polishing removes external stains from coffee, tea, and other foods, restoring your teeth’s natural brightness and enhancing your smile’s appearance.

Protects Against Cavities

By eliminating plaque buildup, scaling and polishing help(s) prevent tooth decay and cavities, ensuring long-term dental health.

Smooth and Clean Feel

Polishing leaves the teeth feeling smooth, making it harder for plaque to accumulate, maintaining a cleaner and healthier mouth.

Book a Consultation Today!

Schedule an appointment with our team for professional scaling and polishing to maintain a clean, healthy smile.

What to Expect During Scaling and Polishing

Step 1: Examination

Your dentist will first thoroughly examine your teeth and gums to determine the level of plaque and tartar buildup. The examination may also include checking for early signs of gum disease or cavities.

Step 2: Scaling

A specialised instrument is used to remove the hardened plaque and tartar that have built up along the gum line and between your teeth. This process helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues. Scaling can be done manually or using an ultrasonic device that breaks down tartar and plaque. 

Step 3: Polishing

A polishing paste is applied using a rotating brush to remove any surface stains, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and clean. Polishing makes it more difficult for plaque to accumulate in the future.

Step 4: Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to further strengthen your tooth enamel and provide extra protection against decay.

Step 5: Post-Treatment Care

We will offer tips on how to maintain your oral hygiene at home, including recommendations for brushing and flossing techniques. We will also advise on when to schedule your next visit.

FAQs

  • Most people benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. However, your dentist may recommend a different schedule based on your oral health.

  • The procedure is generally painless, though some may experience mild discomfort, especially if they have sensitive or inflammed gums. Your dentist can adjust the treatment or apply an anesthetic solution to ensure comfort.

  • Polishing helps remove surface stains, making teeth appear cleaner and brighter, but it does not change the natural colour of your teeth like professional whitening or tooth bleaching treatments.

  • Yes, after scaling and polishing, your teeth will feel cleaner. Some may experience temporary sensitivity, but this should subside quickly.

  • No, scaling is a safe procedure designed to remove harmful deposits. It does not weaken or damage healthy teeth when done by a professional.

  • Avoid consuming foods or beverages that can stain your teeth like coffee and tea for a few hours. Continue brushing and flossing regularly to maintain your oral health until your next appointment.

 
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