Scale And Polish

A scale and polish, also known as professional teeth cleaning or dental prophylaxis, is a preventive treatment performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. This essential procedure maintains oral health and prevents dental problems before they develop.

What Is Scaling?

Scaling removes hardened plaque (tartar or calculus) that has built up on teeth, particularly below the gum line where your toothbrush can't reach. Tartar forms when plaque mineralizes and hardens, creating a rough surface that attracts more bacteria and can lead to gum disease.

The Scaling Process

Your hygienist uses specialized instruments:

• Ultrasonic scaler: Uses vibrations and water spray to break up and flush away large tartar deposits
• Hand scalers and curettes: Remove remaining tartar and smooth tooth surfaces, especially in hard-to-reach areas and below the gum line

What Is Polishing?

After scaling, your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and create a smooth, clean surface that makes it harder for plaque to accumulate. Polishing uses a gritty prophylaxis paste applied with a rotating rubber cup or brush.

The Complete Procedure

1. Examination

Your hygienist examines your teeth and gums, checking for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

2. Scaling

Tartar is carefully removed from tooth surfaces and below the gum line. You may hear scraping sounds and feel vibrations, but the procedure shouldn't be painful.

3. Polishing

Teeth are polished to remove stains and create a smooth, shiny surface. You can choose from different flavoured pastes.

4. Flossing

Professional flossing removes any remaining debris between teeth.

5. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

Fluoride gel or varnish may be applied to strengthen enamel and provide extra protection against decay.

6. Oral Hygiene Advice

Your hygienist provides personalized recommendations for improving your home care routine.

Duration: 30-60 minutes

Benefits of Regular Scale & Polish

• Prevents gum disease: Removes bacteria that cause gingivitis and periodontitis
• Reduces cavities: Eliminates plaque and tartar where bacteria thrive
• Freshens breath: Removes odor-causing bacteria and food debris
• Brighter smile: Removes surface stains from tea, coffee, wine, and smoking
• Early problem detection: Regular visits catch issues before they become serious
• Saves money: Preventive care is far cheaper than treating advanced dental problems
• Overall health benefits: Oral health links to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions

How Often Should You Have It Done?

Most people benefit from scale and polish every 6 months. However, frequency depends on individual factors:

More frequent (every 3-4 months) if you have:

• History of gum disease
• Heavy tartar buildup
• Orthodontic appliances
• Diabetes or other conditions affecting oral health
• Smoking habit
• Dry mouth

Less frequent (annually) if you have:

• Excellent oral hygiene
• Minimal plaque buildup
• Healthy gums
• Low risk of dental problems

Does It Hurt?

Scale and polish is generally painless. You may experience:

• Mild discomfort or sensitivity during scaling, especially if you have gum disease or sensitive teeth
• Slight gum tenderness immediately after treatment
• Temporary tooth sensitivity to temperature

If you experience discomfort, inform your hygienist. They can adjust their technique, offer breaks, or use desensitizing agents. For very sensitive patients, topical or local anesthesia is available.

Aftercare

After your appointment:

• Gums may feel slightly tender for a day or two
• Rinse with warm salt water if gums are sore
• Continue regular brushing and flossing
• Avoid staining foods/drinks for 24 hours if teeth were polished
• Sensitivity should resolve within a few days

Cost in the UK

• NHS: Included in Band 1 treatment (£26.80) during regular check-up
• Private: £50-£100 depending on practice and region
• Hygienist appointment: £50-£80 for standalone cleaning

Scale & Polish vs. Deep Cleaning

Standard scale and polish is preventive maintenance for healthy mouths. Deep cleaning (root planing or periodontal therapy) treats existing gum disease by cleaning deeper below the gum line, often requiring local anesthesia and multiple appointments.

Who Performs the Treatment?

Both dentists and dental hygienists can perform scale and polish. Hygienists specialize in preventive care and often spend more time on cleaning and oral hygiene education.

Maintaining Results at Home

• Brush twice daily for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
• Use mouthwash to reduce bacteria
• Limit sugary and acidic foods
• Don't smoke
• Stay hydrated to maintain saliva flow
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months

Special Considerations

For Pregnant Women

Scale and polish is safe and recommended during pregnancy. Hormonal changes increase gum disease risk, making regular cleaning even more important.

For People with Medical Conditions

Inform your hygienist about medical conditions, medications, or allergies. Some conditions (heart valve problems, joint replacements) may require antibiotic prophylaxis before dental treatment.

Signs You Need a Scale & Polish

• Visible tartar buildup (yellow or brown deposits)
• Bleeding gums when brushing
• Persistent bad breath
• Swollen or red gums
• Noticeable staining on teeth
• It's been more than 6 months since your last cleaning

Regular scale and polish appointments are one of the best investments in your oral health, preventing serious problems while keeping your smile bright and healthy.