Scaling & Polishing

Scaling and polishing are essential preventive dental procedures that help maintain healthy teeth and gums. During scaling, your dentist carefully removes hardened plaque, tartar, and bacterial buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate. This process helps reduce the risk of gum disease, cavities, and persistent bad breath.

After scaling, polishing smoothens the tooth surfaces, removes surface stains, and gives your teeth a cleaner, brighter appearance. A smooth surface also makes it harder for plaque to accumulate again, supporting long-term oral hygiene.

For optimal oral health, it is recommended to undergo scaling and polishing every 6 months. This simple routine helps maintain fresh breath, strong gums, and a healthier, more confident smile.

Scaling and Polishing Process

Scaling is a professional dental cleaning procedure that removes hardened tartar (calculus), plaque buildup, and stains from the teeth. Think of it as carefully scraping off layers of deposits that regular brushing cannot remove. When this cleaning is performed below the gumline on the tooth roots, it is called root planing. Root planing smoothens the root surfaces, reduces gum inflammation, and helps prevent gum disease from progressing.

Polishing is done after scaling to smooth the cleaned tooth surfaces. Since scaling may leave the teeth slightly rough, polishing ensures a smooth, shiny finish. This helps prevent bacteria from sticking to the teeth again and offers an added layer of protection. Polishing can be further enhanced with fluoride application for stronger enamel.

People dealing with bad breath (halitosis) often benefit significantly from scaling and polishing, as removing bacteria and tartar greatly improves freshness and overall gum health.

Regular scaling and polishing every 6 months is one of the most effective ways to maintain clean teeth, healthy gums, and a fresh-smelling mouth.