A Patient’s Guide to Dental Procedures : Scaling

If you've been advised that you need a scaling/ teeth cleaning procedure during your dental visit, you may be curious about what is the procedure and why it’s important for your oral health. Hence here are few points that you might want to know -

What is Teeth Scaling?

Teeth scaling is a dental procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, especially from below the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and when it hardens, it turns into tartar or calculus, which can lead to gum disease if not removed.

Why is Scaling Necessary?

- Preventing gum disease, which can eventually lead to tooth loss if ignored.

- Fresh Breath: Scaling removes bacteria that cause bad breath, promoting better oral hygiene and fresher breath.

The Scaling Procedure

Here’s what you can generally expect during a scaling procedure:

1. Oral Examination: Your dentist will examine your mouth and may take X-rays to assess the health of your gums and teeth.

2. Anesthesia (if needed): Depending on the severity of the buildup and your comfort level, a local anesthetic gel or spray may be applied to make the procedure more comfortable.

3. Scaling: The dental professional will use specialized instruments, called ultrasonic scaler device, to carefully remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and beneath the gum line. The ultrasonic scaler uses vibrations to break up and remove the tartar.

4. Root Planing (if necessary): If you have significant gum disease or bleeding and inflamed gums the dentist may also perform root planing, which smooths the surfaces of the roots to help your gums reattach and heal.

5. Polishing: After scaling, your teeth may be polished with a special toothpaste to smooth out the tooth surfaces.

6. Post-Procedure Care:This may include recommendations for brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash.

What to Expect After Scaling

- Sensitivity: It’s normal to experience some sensitivity after the procedure. This usually subsides within a few days.

- Gum Discomfort: You may notice some mild discomfort or swelling in your gums, which will subside on its own in a few days.

- Improved Oral Health: After scaling, many patients experience fresher breath and an overall cleaner feeling in their mouths.

Takeaway message:

Understanding what to expect can help alleviate any anxiety you may have about the process. If you have any concerns or questions about scaling or your oral health, don’t hesitate to communicate with your dentist. They are there to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile!