Scaling

The Difference Between Cleaning and Scaling

Scaling removes the tartar (hardened plaque) that has built up on the teeth, while regular cleanings remove the sticky plaque above the gum line before it can harden into tartar.

The Scaling Procedure

Although a ultrasonic machine may assist in the process, Smile 32 Dental Center will most likely use metal dental instruments to scrape the tartar from the teeth under the gum line. You gums will be numbed with anesthetics. The scaling is then followed by planning, the smoothing the teeth surfaces of roughness. These procedures make the teeth more resistant to plaque build up.

The Need for Scaling

There are several reasons why Smile 32 Dental Center may perform scaling. First they may see that tartar build up on your has worsened the condition of your gums. Secondly you may have bleeding gums or gum inflammation, or gingivitis. Cleaning the bacteria away from the teeth allows the gums to to heal and return to normal. Periodontitis, a severe gum disease can result if scaling is not done to restore the teeth to a healthy condition.

Benefits of Scaling

Scaling can stop or reverse gingivitis which can lead to other more severe gum diseases such as periodontitis, as mentioned before. Getting rid of tartar, or calculus, can reduce tooth decay. Your gums will heal after scaling and planing because the teeth have been cleaned of the bacteria that produces plaque and tartar. Although scaling can help, some patient’s calculus returns, especially when a proper hygiene regime is not maintained. In these cases, periodic scaling is required to remove the tartar.