What Is Dental Scaling?
Dental scaling or tartar removal is a non-surgical dental procedure performed by a dentist to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) buildup from the tooth surface and below the gum line.
Unlike regular brushing, dental scaling uses special tools such as an ultrasonic scaler that produces gentle vibrations to break up tartar without damaging the enamel surface.
Why Is Dental Scaling Important?
When food debris and plaque accumulate, they can harden into tartar, creating a place for bacteria to grow. These bacteria can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and, in severe cases, infection of the supporting tissues around the teeth (periodontitis).
Through professional dental cleaning, you can:
Remove tartar and plaque thoroughly
Reduce bad breath
Keep teeth bright and stain-free
Lower the risk of tooth mobility or loss caused by chronic gum infections
Dental scaling is not only an aesthetic treatment but also an important investment in long-term gum and tooth health.
So what exactly are plaque and tartar, and why should they be removed through scaling? Let’s find out the difference below.
Plaque vs. Tartar: What’s the Difference?
Plaque is a thin and sticky film made of bacteria and food residue that forms on the surface of teeth every day. It can be removed by brushing twice daily, after breakfast and before bed.
When plaque is not cleaned properly, it hardens into tartar (calculus) due to mineral deposits from saliva. Tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing or mouthwash. Only professional dental scaling can safely and effectively remove it.
How Is the Dental Scaling Procedure Done?
A professional teeth cleaning usually includes several steps:
Initial examination: The dentist examines your gums and the amount of tartar buildup.
Scaling procedure: Using an ultrasonic scaler, the dentist gently removes tartar from the tooth surface and between the gums.
Polishing: This step smooths the tooth surface so that plaque does not easily stick again.
Fluoride treatment (optional): Applied to strengthen teeth and reduce post-scaling sensitivity.
Dental scaling is generally painless. However, if there is a large amount of tartar buildup, you may experience slight sensitivity or discomfort afterward.
Long-Term Benefits of Regular Dental Scaling
Getting teeth cleaning regularly not only keeps your smile clean and fresh but also prevents gum and bone problems. Consistent tartar removal helps reduce the risk of gum inflammation, bad breath, and tooth mobility.
Besides improving oral health, dental scaling also enhances aesthetics, helping you smile more confidently in daily interactions.
Ideally, dental scaling should be done every six months. For those with a higher risk of tartar buildup, such as smokers, braces users, or individuals with diabetes, your dentist may recommend more frequent professional dental cleaning sessions.
Post-Scaling Care
To maintain the results after scaling:
Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste
Use dental floss to clean between teeth
Limit coffee, tea, and tobacco consumption
Schedule dental checkups every six months for evaluation and cleaning
With proper post-scaling care, your teeth stay clean and your gums remain healthy.
Conclusion
Dental scaling is an essential step to maintaining overall oral health. More than just teeth cleaning, it helps prevent infection, reduce bad breath, and support a naturally healthy smile for the long term.
At Onyx Dental Center, every procedure is performed professionally with advanced technology and a comfortable, patient-focused approach. Do not wait until tartar builds up. Start your professional dental cleaning today to maintain optimal oral health and lasting confidence.
Reference
Lamont, T., Worthington, H. V., Clarkson, J. E., & Beirne, P. V. (2018). Routine scale and polish for periodontal health in adults. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 12(12), CD004625. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004625.pub5
Matthews, D. C., & Al-Waeli, H. (2025). Benefits of Dental Scaling and Polishing in Adults: A Rapid Review and Evidence Synthesis. JDR clinical and translational research, 10(3), 269–281. https://doi.org/10.1177/23800844241271684
