Scaling and Polishing

Scaling and polishing is a professional dental cleaning that removes hardened plaque (tartar/calculus) and stains from teeth, preventing gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, by first scaling (scraping off buildup with ultrasonic/hand tools) and then polishing (smoothing surfaces with a rotating brush/paste or air-powder for a glossy finish) to deter future plaque buildup. It's a vital part of oral hygiene, usually done every 6 months, but frequency depends on individual needs, and while generally painless, it can cause temporary sensitivity, especially with existing gum issues.

Scaling:

• Removes plaque and hard tartar (calculus) from tooth surfaces and below the gum line.
• Uses ultrasonic scalers and specialized hand instruments.
• Deeper scaling (root planing) may be needed for gum disease, potentially with local anesthetic.

Polishing:

• Removes surface stains and smooths imperfections.
• Uses a rotating brush with gritty paste or an air-powder system.
• Makes teeth shiny and harder for plaque to stick to.