Even with careful brushing, plaque can build up in places a toothbrush cannot fully reach and slowly harden into tartar. A professional scale and polish removes these deposits and is one of the simplest ways to protect your gums and teeth.
What is scaling and polishing?
Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and from along the gum line, using hand instruments or ultrasonic instruments. Polishing then smooths the tooth surfaces and removes surface stains, which also makes it harder for plaque to stick.
Why it matters
Tartar cannot be removed by brushing at home. Left in place, it irritates the gums and can lead to gum inflammation, bad breath and, if gum disease progresses, damage to the tissues that support your teeth.
Signs you may need a clean
- Gums that bleed when you brush or clean between your teeth
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste
- Visible yellow or brown deposits near the gum line
- Surface staining from tea, coffee or tobacco
What to expect
- Examination. Your teeth and gums are checked first.
- Scaling. Plaque and tartar are removed carefully from above and just below the gum line.
- Polishing. Your teeth are polished to leave them smooth.
- Advice. You are shown how to brush and clean between your teeth effectively, and told how often to return.
Aftercare
Your gums may feel a little tender and may bleed slightly for a day or two, particularly if they were inflamed beforehand. Keep brushing gently twice a day and clean between your teeth daily. Regular check-ups let any build-up be dealt with early. How often you need a scale and polish varies, and many people are advised to have one around every six months.
Good to know
Scaling does not damage healthy teeth when done correctly. If you notice gaps afterwards, they are usually spaces that were previously filled with swollen gum and tartar. If gum disease is more advanced, a deeper cleaning or further treatment may be needed, and your dentist will explain this.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on how quickly you build up plaque and tartar and on your gum health. Many people are advised to have it roughly every six months, but your dentist will recommend what suits you.
Most people find it comfortable, though sensitive teeth or inflamed gums can make it feel tender. Let your dentist know if you are uncomfortable, and they can adjust their approach.
No. When done correctly, scaling removes deposits without harming healthy tooth structure. Any looseness is usually due to the underlying gum condition rather than the cleaning itself.
Gums that were inflamed from plaque and tartar can bleed a little as they begin to heal. With good home care this usually settles within a few days. Persistent bleeding should be checked.
No. It improves the look of your teeth, but its main purpose is to protect your gum health by removing deposits that brushing cannot.
This page is general educational information and is not a substitute for a personal dental examination. Suitability, timelines and outcomes vary from person to person and are confirmed at your consultation with Dr. Shivani Gupta, BDS.