Maintaining healthy teeth and gums goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. Over time, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, even with good oral hygiene. This buildup can lead to gum disease, bad breath and tooth decay if left untreated. Scaling and polishing is a preventive dental procedure that removes plaque, tartar and surface stains — keeping your smile clean, fresh and healthy.
What Is Scaling and Polishing?
Scaling is the process of removing plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from tooth surfaces and below the gumline using ultrasonic or hand instruments.
Polishing smooths the tooth surface using a rotating brush or air-polishing system with a special paste or powder. This not only gives your teeth a cleaner appearance but also makes it harder for plaque to stick.
Why Is Scaling and Polishing Important?
Even with daily brushing and flossing, some areas of your mouth are hard to reach, allowing plaque to accumulate. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist.
Skipping regular scaling and polishing can lead to:
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Persistent bad breath (halitosis)
- Stained or discoloured teeth
- Tooth decay
- Loose teeth in severe cases
Benefits of Scaling and Polishing
According to researches and other dental health sources, regular scaling and polishing offer multiple benefits:
- Prevents Gum Disease – Removes bacteria that cause gum inflammation.
- Fresher Breath – Eliminates odour-causing plaque and tartar.
- Whiter Teeth – Removes surface stains from coffee, tea, wine and smoking.
- Better Oral Hygiene – Smooth tooth surfaces make cleaning more effective.
- Overall Health Benefits – Reduces the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream and affecting systemic health.
How Scaling and Polishing Is Done
The procedure typically involves:
- Oral Examination – Dentist checks your teeth and gums.
- Scaling – Ultrasonic scaler breaks down tartar using vibrations and water spray.
- Polishing – Removes stains and smooths teeth with a polishing paste or Prophyjet spray.
- Rinse & Fluoride Application (Optional) – Strengthens enamel and freshens breath.
Does Scaling and Polishing Hurt?
For most patients, the procedure is painless. You may feel mild sensitivity or pressure, especially if you have gum inflammation or heavy tartar buildup. If needed, your dentist can use a numbing gel or local anaesthesia for comfort.
How Often Should You Get Scaling and Polishing?
Most dentists in Singapore recommend every 6 months. However, you may need it more often if you:
- Smoke or consume staining foods and drinks
- Have gum disease
- Wear braces or retainers
- Have a history of tartar buildup
Aftercare Tips for Long-Lasting Results
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily
- Rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Avoid smoking and reduce intake of coffee, tea or red wine
- Maintain regular dental check-ups
Scaling and Polishing in Bedok, Singapore
If you’re looking for scaling and polishing in Bedok, choose a clinic with modern cleaning equipment, gentle techniques and a focus on gum health. This ensures the procedure is effective while minimising discomfort.
How Dental Clinic Bedok Can Help
At Dental Clinic Bedok, we provide thorough scaling and polishing treatments to remove plaque, tartar and stains, helping you maintain healthy gums and a bright smile. Our team tailors each cleaning to your needs — whether it’s routine maintenance, stain removal or gum disease prevention. We use up-to-date techniques to ensure a comfortable and effective experience for every patient.
📅 Book an appointmenttoday and keep your teeth clean, fresh and healthy.
📍 Visit Us: Dental Clinic Bedok
📞 Call Now: +65 66904035