Scaling and polishing is also known as teeth cleaning. During meals, food debris tends to build up on the surfaces of our teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to remove this debris, otherwise known as plaque. There will bound to be harder to reach areas that you missed out during brushing and flossing and as debris accumulates overtime and hardens, calculus or tar tar may form. Calculus are hard yellow or black deposits that resemble stones, and is difficult to remove with just simple brushing and flossing.

Scaling involves the use of equipment that uses ultrasonic vibrations that dislodges calculus from the surfaces of teeth. Oftentimes, calculus builds up under your gums and your gums may tend to get inflamed and bleeds easily if the calculus is not removed. Your dentist will have to scale near the gums to remove the calculus to restore your gums to a healthy state. Polishing involves the use of a polishing cup and polishing paste to remove external surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and more.

Your dental professional will recommend scaling and polishing every 6 months. Regular maintenance of oral health is important to prevent cavities, gum disease and other problems.