All You Need To Know About Teeth Scaling

Good oral hygiene isn’t only about achieving an attractive smile—it’s a cardinal tenet of good health and self-confidence.

Poor oral health may negatively impact a person in several ways. For instance, dental disorders may have an intense impact on psychosocial behaviour. This often leads to low self-esteem in social situations and even social isolation.

One crucial procedure that enhances oral hygiene is teeth scaling. Let us understand its intricacies, benefits, types, methods, side effects, etc.

What is teeth scaling?

Teeth scaling, or dental scaling is a non-surgical cleaning process that removes plaque or tartar buildup from the tooth surface and from below the gum line.

It is a non-surgical procedure that is often performed with root planing. The aim is primarily to treat chronic periodontal disease (gum disease). By reducing the pockets between the teeth and gums, teeth scaling may help prevent tooth, bone, and tissue loss associated with gum disease, which might cause dull aching pain or discomfort.

In practice, it is more in-depth than a typical teeth cleaning. Furthermore, it uses traditional tools like scalers and curettes and modern instruments like lasers and ultrasonic devices.

Teeth scaling vs deep cleaning

Teeth scaling and cleaning are closely related but have different purposes. While regular cleaning focuses on the visible surfaces of the teeth, deep scaling goes a step further by targeting the hard-to-reach areas below the gum line.

Fundamentally, it involves a more thorough cleaning process to eliminate plaque and tartar from the roots of the teeth. These areas are usually missed during regular cleaning. Consequently, it may cause a buildup of plaque and tartar, leading to gum disease.

What does teeth scaling do?

Teeth scaling offers several benefits for maintaining oral health:

• Removal of plaque and tartar: These substances may accumulate on the teeth. Consequently, this results in gum disease and tooth decay. Teeth scaling helps remove these harmful substances, preventing further dental issues.
• Prevent gum disease: Teeth scaling may keep you from losing gum tissue or lessen the risk of gum diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis.
• Fresher breath: Plaque buildup can contribute to bad breath. Teeth scaling helps eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath, resulting in fresher breath.
• Enhanced oral health: Periodic dental scaling helps prevent the need for more invasive dental treatments, thereby, maintaining optimal oral hygiene and health.

How many types of teeth scaling are there?

There are two main types of teeth scaling procedures

• Standard teeth scaling: This procedure includes the removal of plaque and tartar, calculus stone from tooth surface above the gum line. It is typically performed during routine dental cleanings.
• Deep cleaning (scaling + root planing): For patients with advanced gum disease, this comprehensive process called deep scaling and root planing may be adopted. This unique procedure entails methodically removing plaque tartar and calculus stones from below the gum line. Then, the tooth roots are smoothed to promote gum reattachment.

Steps involved in dental scaling procedure

The teeth scaling procedure typically includes the following steps:

• Oral examination: The dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums before recommending teeth scaling. This is done to assess the extent of plaque and tartar buildup and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
• Removal of plaque and tartar: Utilising specialised dental tools, the dentist will carefully remove the plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the patient’s teeth and below the gum line. This process may involve both ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers.
• Cleaning below the gumline: After removing the plaque and tartar, the dentist will methodically clean below the gumline. This is done to ensure the removal of any remaining bacteria or debris.
• Rinsing: To complete the procedure, your mouth will be rinsed to remove any particles and residual cleaning agents.

Teeth scaling side effects

While teeth scaling is generally safe, some side effects may occur, including:

• Mild gum sensitivity: You may experience gum sensitivity or tenderness following the procedure.
• Tooth sensitivity: Your teeth may become temporarily sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
• Gum bleeding: It is common to experience minor gum bleeding during and after teeth scaling.

These side effects are temporary and should resolve on their own within a few days as your gums heal.

What is the difference between teeth scaling and polishing?

Teeth scaling focuses on plaque and tartar removal, addressing underlying oral health issues. In contrast, dental polishing involves smoothing the tooth surfaces to reduce the likelihood of future plaque accumulation and enhance aesthetic appeal.

Teeth scaling cost in Malaysia

The cost of teeth scaling in Malaysia varies depending on different factors. For example, the clinic (private or government-run), location, extent of scaling and service required. Thus, it is best to contact your dentist for a consultation for exact prices.

Where to get the best teeth scaling in Malaysia?

When seeking teeth scaling treatment in Malaysia, you have various options, including government hospitals, private dental clinics, and specialised dental centres.

However, a private dental firm is usually recommended for state-of-the-art personalised care. You may explore an established dental caregiver like mydentist®, who maintains experienced professionals specialising in all things dental scaling.

Our dental professionals at mydentist® are trained to ensure that the scaling procedure is performed thoroughly and effectively. Additionally, we leverage specialised tools and techniques for teeth scaling, like air polishers and ultrasonic devices, thus ensuring a smoother and more effective scaling procedure.