Are you looking to maintain a bright, clean smile and optimal oral health? Teeth scaling and polishing are essential dental procedures that give your teeth a fresh, smooth feel and play a crucial role in keeping your mouth healthy. At True Dental Studio, we’re here to share why regular scaling and polishing are vital for everyone.
What Is Teeth Scaling and Polishing?
Teeth scaling and polishing are professional cleanings designed to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. Plaque, a sticky film from food particles and saliva, can harden into tartar if not removed, leading to gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Scaling targets these buildups, while polishing leaves a smooth, shiny finish to prevent future issues.
How Teeth Scaling and Polishing Work
Scaling
Scaling is the first step, where your dentist uses specialised tools, such as an ultrasonic scaler or hand instruments, to remove plaque and tartar from both above (supragingival) and below (subgingival) the gum line. As tartar cannot be removed by regular brushing, scaling thoroughly cleans these hard-to-reach areas, providing a deep clean for optimal oral health.
Polishing
Polishing follows scaling to smooth and shine your teeth. During this step, your dentist uses a slightly gritty paste (known as prophylaxis paste) and a rubber polishing cup or brush to gently buff the surface of your teeth, removing any remaining plaque, stains, and minor irregularities. This leaves your teeth brighter and prevents plaque buildup, as the polished surface is harder for bacteria to cling to.
ProphyFlex Polishing at True Dental Studio
At True Dental Studio, we use ProphyFlex Polishing, a high-pressure air jet that combines air, water, and sodium bicarbonate, for effective cleaning and polishing. This advanced method removes plaque, debris, and stains while polishing the surface. Unlike conventional rubber cup polishing, ProphyFlex reaches between teeth for a more thorough clean, enhancing your smile and oral health.
Is Teeth Scaling Painful?
The procedure is generally gentle. Most patients experience little discomfort, though some may feel mild sensitivity, especially with significant tartar buildup or gum inflammation. At True Dental Studio, we prioritise your comfort, using gentle techniques to ensure a smooth experience.
Aftercare of Scaling and Polishing
Mild gum sensitivity or tenderness may occur after the procedure, but this is usually temporary. Our dentists may suggest simple aftercare tips like using desensitising toothpaste to alleviate discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene, such as brushing twice daily and flossing, helps keep your smile clean and polished.
Benefits of Regular Scaling and Polishing
Regular teeth scaling and polishing provide numerous benefits:
Prevents Gum Disease, Tooth Decay, and More
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is caused by plaque buildup along the gum line, leading to inflammation, bleeding, and potential tooth loss. Scaling and polishing help remove harmful bacteria and tartar that contribute to gum disease and cavities, keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Preventive care not only reduces the need for more extensive gum treatments later but also supports overall health, as studies have linked gum disease to a higher risk of heart disease.
Freshens Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, often results from bacteria and plaque buildup. Regular scaling and polishing eliminate these odour-causing agents, leaving your mouth feeling clean and giving you fresher breath.
Brightens Your Smile
Over time, food, beverages, and habits like smoking can leave surface stains on your teeth, dulling their appearance. Polishing smoothens your teeth and removes these stains, maintaining a brighter, whiter smile while also preventing future plaque accumulation.
Should You Use an Ultrasonic Dental Scaler at Home?
An ultrasonic dental scaler is a tool used by dental professionals to remove
plaque and tartar. It breaks down hardened deposits using high-frequency
vibrations and is particularly effective for cleaning below the gum line. A
stream of water cools the instrument and rinses away debris, ensuring a
comfortable and thorough cleaning.
However, using an ultrasonic scaler at home can pose risks. Dental
professionals are specifically trained to adjust the power and pressure
based on individual needs. Incorrect use at home can damage enamel,
irritate gums, miss deeper tartar deposits, and increase the risk of
infection. It's best to rely on professional cleanings by a
dentist or hygienist to ensure safe, effective care and avoid
complications.
How Often Should You Scale and Polish Your Teeth?
It is generally recommended to visit a dentist for scaling and polishing every six months, but the frequency can vary based on your needs. Factors like diet (e.g., consuming coffee or tea), smoking habits, and oral health can affect how frequently you need these cleanings. At True Dental Studio, our dentists can guide you on the best schedule for your dental care.
Cost of Teeth Scaling and Polishing
| Treatment | Price* |
|---|---|
| Consultation | $27.25 to $65.40 |
| Dental Scaling and Polishing for Children / Teenagers (18 years and Below) | $45 to $90 |
| Dental Scaling and Polishing (ProphyFlex) | $90 to $160 |
| Topical Fluoride | $27.25 to $65.40 |
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.
Book Your Scaling and Polishing Today for a Brighter Smile
Regular dental scaling and polishing not only keep your teeth looking their best but are also vital for maintaining your oral health. A cleaner mouth means fewer oral issues, fresher breath, and a brighter, healthier smile that you can confidently show off. At True Dental Studio, we are committed to providing gentle, thorough, and advanced care tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment with us today and let our team help you achieve a smile that shines!
Why Choose True Dental Studio?
Friendly Dentist and Team
Our team treats each and every patient to the best of our ability. This is the reason why entire families have continued their dental care with True Dental Studio for many years, from all over Singapore.
Minimal Discomfort
At True Dental, it is our commitment to ensure our patients are kept as comfortable as possible. We aim to minimize discomfort, if any, for our patients.
Affordable Treatments
We believe in pricing quality treatments at a competitive rate. We are transparent and upfront with our treatment costs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, scaling and polishing are beneficial for your oral health. They remove plaque, tartar, and stains, preventing gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. At True Dental Studio, these services are available for adults from $90 to $160 NETT and for children/teenagers (18 years and below) from $45 to $90 NETT.
Generally, the procedure is not painful. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, especially if there is significant tartar buildup or gum inflammation.
It is generally recommended to undergo scaling and polishing every six months. However, the frequency may vary based on factors like diet, smoking habits, and oral health. It's best to consult your dentist to determine the schedule suited to your needs.
Yes, you can eat after the procedure. However, it is advised to avoid hot or very cold foods for a few hours, especially if you experience sensitivity.
Yes, you can resume your normal brushing routine after scaling. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to maintain your clean and polished teeth.
Yes, scaling is necessary to remove tartar that cannot be eliminated by regular brushing and flossing. This helps prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues.
Some people may experience mild gum sensitivity or tenderness after the procedure, but this usually resolves within a few days. To minimise discomfort, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.
Avoid consuming hot, cold, or acidic foods for a few hours. Also, refrain from smoking, which can irritate your gums and affect healing.
Scaling removes surface stains and plaque, making your teeth look cleaner and brighter. However, it does not change the natural colour of your teeth.
Common side effects include temporary gum sensitivity, minor bleeding, or slight discomfort. These effects are usually mild and subside within a few days.
At True Dental Studio, dental scaling and polishing for adults using ProphyFlex is priced between $90 to $160 NETT, and for children and teenagers (18 years and below), the cost ranges from $45 to $90 NETT. A consultation is $25 to $60 NETT, and if needed, topical fluoride treatment is an additional $27.25 to $65.40 NETT.
Recovery after scaling usually takes a few days. Mild gum sensitivity and tenderness are common and generally subside within a week.
Yes, you can rinse your mouth gently with water or a mouthwash as needed. However, avoid using strong, alcohol-based mouthwashes immediately after the procedure.
While dental cleanings are beneficial, minor side effects like temporary sensitivity, bleeding gums, or discomfort may occur. These are generally mild and improve quickly.
To maintain your teeth after scaling, brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and avoid sugary foods and drinks. Regular dental check-ups are also important.
Scaling and polishing remove surface stains and plaque, which can make your teeth appear whiter. However, it does not bleach or whiten your teeth beyond their natural colour.
No, when performed correctly by a dental professional, scaling and polishing do not damage teeth. It safely removes harmful deposits to improve oral health.
Yes, scaling and polishing are excellent for maintaining oral health. They help prevent gum disease and tooth decay, leaving your teeth feeling fresh and clean. At True Dental Studio, prices range from $90 to $160 NETT for adults and $45 to $90 NETT for children and teenagers. A consultation is $27.25 to $65.40 NETT, and a topical fluoride treatment, if recommended, is an additional $27.25 to $65.40 NETT.