Scaling and Polishing: Nuffield Dental Malaysia

Scaling and polishing offer numerous oral health benefits, including:

• Preventing Gum Disease (Periodontitis): By removing plaque and tartar, these procedures prevent the onset of gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
• Enhancing Oral Hygiene: Regular scaling and polishing remove buildup on the teeth unreachable by daily brushing and flossing, maintaining optimal oral health.
• Brightening Smile: Polishing removes surface stains from food and beverages, restoring the natural shine of your teeth.

While preventive in nature, scaling and polishing also serve as effective treatments for existing oral health issues:

• Plaque Bacteria: Plaque bacteria produce acids that erode tooth enamel, leading to decay. They also inflame gums, causing gum disease. Regular scaling and polishing remove plaque and tartar, preventing these conditions and maintaining oral health.
• Plaque and Tartar Build-up: They are instrumental in cleaning both the surface and the difficult areas beneath the gum line, eliminating plaque and tartar that daily hygiene practices can miss.
• Gum Disease: Through the removal of harmful plaque and tartar, these treatments help in reversing early signs of gum diseases and in maintaining healthy gums to prevent further deterioration.

Undergoing scaling and polishing is generally safe, with minimal risks involved. However, patients may experience:

• Discomfort: Some may feel slight discomfort during the scaling process, especially in areas with significant tartar buildup.
• Sensitivity: Teeth may become temporarily more sensitive following the procedure. This is typically short-lived and can be managed with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

While rare, complications from scaling and polishing can occur, especially if post-procedure care instructions are not followed properly:

• Persistent Bleeding: Though minor bleeding is normal, continuous bleeding over several days requires dental consultation.
• Severe Pain or Discomfort: Any pain that escalates or persists beyond a couple of days should be evaluated by a dentist.
• Swollen Gums: If swelling occurs and does not reduce after a few days, it could indicate an underlying issue needing attention.

Here’s how you can expect the procedure to go – for more information, reach out to us for a consultation.

Before the Procedure

• Consultation: Begins with a dental consultation to assess oral health needs.
• Dental Check-Up: Includes a thorough examination and possibly X-rays to identify any underlying issues.
• Preparation: Patients are briefed on what to expect and any specific needs or anxieties are discussed.

During the Procedure

• Scaling: In the dental scaling process, professionals use ultrasonic scalers and hand-held tools like scalers and curettes.
• Polishing: A prophy-jet or a similar device applies a combination of air, water pressure, and prophylaxis paste to clean and smooth the tooth surfaces.
• Fluoride Therapy: Fluoride therapy strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. It involves applying fluoride to teeth in various forms, such as toothpaste, rinses, or professional treatments, to protect against cavities and reverse early signs of tooth decay.

1. Is Scaling and Polishing Painful?

No, scaling and polishing are generally not painful. These procedures involve removing plaque and tartar from teeth surfaces and are performed using specialised tools. Mild discomfort or sensitivity might occur, but local anesthesia can be used for those with sensitive teeth.

2. What is the Difference Between Scaling and Polishing and Teeth Whitening?

Scaling involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and extrinsic stains through professional cleaning by a dental professional, aiming to maintain oral health. Teeth whitening, on the other hand, is a cosmetic procedure designed to brighten the shade of your teeth using higher concentration gels, enhancing your smile’s aesthetic appeal.

3. Does Scaling and Polishing Whiten Teeth?

Yes, scaling and polishing can help in whitening teeth to some extent. While the primary goal of scaling is to remove plaque and tartar, and polishing smoothens the teeth surfaces, together they can remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or tobacco, revealing a brighter and more natural smile. However, for deeper stains or to achieve a shade lighter than your natural tooth colour, professional teeth whitening services are recommended.

4. How Frequently Should I Go for Scaling and Polishing?

The ideal frequency for scaling and polishing is biannually. However, individuals with a history of gum disease or excessive plaque buildup may require more frequent sessions, as determined by a dental professional.

5. How Long Does Scaling and Polishing Take?

Scaling and polishing take about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on oral hygiene and tartar buildup. Extensive cleaning may require more time.