Scaling & Polishing
What Is Scaling & Polishing? Teeth Cleaning in Scarborough
Scaling is the process of removing plaque and hardened tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and around the gum line.
Your dental hygienist may use specialized hand instruments or an ultrasonic scaler to gently remove deposits that cannot be removed through normal brushing and flossing.
Regular professional cleanings can help reduce the buildup that contributes to gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
What Is Polishing?
Once plaque and tartar have been removed, your teeth may be polished to remove certain surface stains and leave the tooth surfaces feeling smooth and clean.
Polishing can help remove stains that may develop from everyday foods and drinks and can leave your smile looking brighter.
It’s important to note that polishing is primarily intended to remove surface stains rather than change the natural colour of your teeth.
Why Is Professional Cleaning Important?
Daily brushing and flossing are essential, but they cannot always reach every area of your mouth.
Plaque can accumulate around the gum line and between teeth. If it remains in place, it can harden into tartar and contribute to gum inflammation.
Regular professional cleanings can help:
- Remove plaque and tartar
- Reduce buildup around the gum line
- Help prevent gum disease
- Remove some surface staining
- Keep teeth feeling smooth and clean
- Support your overall oral hygiene
Professional cleaning works together with good brushing and flossing habits at home.
What Happens During a Scaling & Polishing Appointment?
01
Examination
02
Scaling
03
Polishing
04
Fluoride Treatment
Scaling & Polishing vs. Scaling & Root Planing
A regular scaling and polishing appointment is generally focused on removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains from the teeth.
Scaling and root planing is a more extensive periodontal treatment used when there is deeper buildup beneath the gum line and signs of gum disease.
Your dental team will assess your gums and recommend the appropriate type of cleaning based on your individual needs.
How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned?
The ideal frequency of professional cleanings varies from person to person.
Your dentist or dental hygienist will consider factors such as your oral hygiene, gum health, tartar buildup, and history of periodontal problems when recommending how often you should come in.
Regular professional care, combined with brushing twice a day and daily flossing, can help you maintain healthier teeth and gums.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our Locations
Scarborough Village Dental Care
Address
Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday: 9 AM - 7 PMWednesday: 9 AM - 7 PMThursday: 9 AM - 6 PM Friday: 9 AM - 3 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM
Cliffcrest Family Dental
Address
Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PMWednesday: 8 AM - 8 PMThursday: 8 AM - 8 PM Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM