Scaling & Polishing

What is Scaling?

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surface of your teeth, especially from areas where brushing and flossing may not reach, such as below the gum line. Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that forms on your teeth throughout the day. If it is not regularly removed, plaque can harden into tartar, which is much more difficult to remove and can lead to gum disease.

During a scaling procedure, your dentist or dental hygienist uses specialized instruments, such as a scaler or an ultrasonic device, to gently scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth. Scaling is typically done on both the front and back of the teeth and along the gum line, where plaque and tartar tend to build up the most.

Why Scaling is Important

• Prevents gum disease: Tartar buildup irritates the gums and can lead to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) or more serious conditions like periodontitis (gum disease). Scaling removes these harmful deposits, helping to keep your gums healthy.
• Removes plaque and tartar: By removing plaque and tartar, scaling helps reduce your risk of cavities and tooth decay, which can result from the bacteria found in plaque.
• Helps maintain fresh breath: The bacteria that accumulate in plaque can contribute to bad breath (halitosis). Regular scaling helps eliminate the cause of bad breath, giving you a fresher, cleaner mouth.
• Improves overall oral health: By keeping plaque and tartar under control, scaling helps maintain good oral hygiene and prevents the development of more severe dental issues down the road.

What is Polishing?

Polishing is the final step in the scaling procedure. After tartar and plaque have been removed, your dentist or hygienist will use a special polishing tool with a gentle, rotating rubber cup to smooth the surface of your teeth. This process not only removes any remaining plaque but also buffs your teeth, leaving them with a glossy, smooth finish.

The polishing paste used during this step contains mild abrasives that help smooth out any rough spots left after scaling, which makes it more difficult for plaque to accumulate in the future.

Benefits of Polishing

• Enhances the appearance of your smile: Polishing helps remove surface stains caused by food, drink, and smoking, leaving your teeth brighter and smoother.
• Makes it harder for plaque to accumulate: A smooth tooth surface makes it more difficult for bacteria to adhere, helping to keep your teeth cleaner for a longer period.
• Boosts your confidence: A clean, polished smile can help you feel more confident about your appearance, especially after noticing how much brighter your teeth look after a cleaning.

How Often Should You Have Scaling and Polishing?

The frequency of scaling and polishing depends on your oral health needs. For most people, having a professional cleaning (scaling and polishing) every six months is sufficient to maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, some individuals may need more frequent cleanings, such as:

• People with gum disease: If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, more frequent scaling and polishing may be necessary to help manage the condition and prevent further damage to your gums and teeth.
• Smokers: Tobacco use can lead to more plaque buildup, so smokers may benefit from more frequent cleanings to reduce tartar and stain buildup.
• People with braces or other dental appliances: If you have braces, bridges, or other dental devices, plaque can build up more quickly, so more regular cleanings may be needed.
• Those prone to plaque buildup: If you naturally have a higher risk of plaque buildup, you may need cleanings every 3 to 4 months.

Your dentist can recommend a cleaning schedule tailored to your specific needs based on your oral health and risk factors.

The Benefits of Scaling and Polishing

Scaling and polishing are essential components of your oral hygiene routine. While brushing and flossing are critical for maintaining daily oral health, a professional cleaning takes care of the areas that may be missed, helping to prevent more serious dental issues down the line. Here are the key benefits of scaling and polishing:

• Prevention of gum disease: Regular scaling helps to remove bacteria and plaque that can irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis and more serious gum conditions.
• Cavity prevention: By removing plaque and tartar buildup, scaling reduces the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
• Freshens breath: Scaling helps reduce bacteria in the mouth, which can contribute to bad breath. Polishing then ensures that your teeth feel and look fresh and clean.
• Improved aesthetics: The polishing step removes surface stains, leaving your teeth looking brighter and giving you a whiter smile. It also smooths the surfaces of your teeth, making them more resistant to plaque buildup.
• Enhanced oral hygiene: Regular cleanings improve overall oral hygiene, helping you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Scaling and polishing can also help you keep your at-home oral care routine more effective, as the cleaned surfaces are easier to care for between visits.

The Scaling and Polishing Procedure: What to Expect

The process is straightforward and typically lasts around 30 minutes , depending on the amount of tartar buildup and your individual needs. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Examination: Your dentist or hygienist will first examine your teeth and gums to assess your oral health. They will check for signs of plaque buildup, gum disease, or other dental conditions.
2. Scaling: Using specialized instruments, your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces. You may feel some vibrations or mild pressure during this process, but it’s generally painless. If there’s any discomfort, your hygienist can adjust the pressure or use a gentle ultrasonic scaler.
3. Polishing: After scaling, your teeth will be polished using a gentle paste that helps remove surface stains. This step leaves your teeth feeling smooth and shiny.
4. Final Check: After the procedure, your dentist or hygienist may give you additional recommendations on how to maintain your oral hygiene between visits, such as tips on brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash.

If it’s been a while since your last professional cleaning, or if you want to maintain your oral health and prevent future dental issues, scaling and polishing is an excellent way to give your teeth and gums the attention they deserve.