Teeth scaling is a dental procedure that involves the removal of plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the surfaces of your teeth. It’s a common part of professional dental cleanings and is typically done by a dental hygienist or dentist.
There are two main types of scaling:
- Manual scaling: The dentist or hygienist uses hand-held instruments, such as scalers, to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth.
- Ultrasonic scaling: An ultrasonic scaler uses sound waves to break up tartar and plaque, which is then washed away by a water spray.
Scaling is important because plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), cavities, and bad breath. After scaling, your dentist may also polish your teeth to give them a smooth surface, which makes it harder for plaque to accumulate in the future.
It’s a routine procedure that is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, depending on your oral health.
