What is Scaling/ Tooth Cleaning?
Scaling, also known as tooth cleaning or dental prophylaxis, is a preventive dental procedure aimed at removing plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the surfaces of teeth, particularly along the gumline and between teeth. It plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health and preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on the teeth throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional intervention to eliminate.
The scaling process is typically performed by a dental hygienist or dentist using specialized instruments called scalers and curettes. These instruments are designed to gently but effectively remove plaque and tartar deposits from the tooth surfaces without causing damage to the enamel or gums.
How is deep cleaning of teeth done?
3 steps to deep cleanings, which are:
deep gum cleaning of tartar and removing plaque from the surface of the teeth and from below the gum line, using hand tools or ultrasound.
scaling and root planing above and below the gum line using scaling, scraping and root peeling tools, in order to remove plaque and tartar from inside the roots of the teeth, in addition to polishing rough spots such as old fillings, and killing bacteria and preventing their reproduction using oral antibiotics.
You need at least two visits to the doctor to ensure the health of the gums and teeth. Doctors also advise periodic examination every 4 months to check on the condition of the gums and to detect infections and treat them early.
