Scaling

Scaling is a routine dental treatment aimed at removing dental plaque, calculus (tartar) and bacterial biofilm from the surfaces of teeth and from beneath the gumline. It is usually performed by a dentist or dental hygienist using ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers to break up and lift away hardened deposits, which reduces inflammation and helps treat or prevent gingivitis and periodontitis.

Scaling may be performed alone for routine cleaning or combined with root planing for deeper pockets; local anaesthesia is sometimes used for more extensive treatment. Patients can expect some temporary gum sensitivity or minor bleeding after the procedure, and good at-home oral hygiene plus regular professional maintenance are important to sustain the benefits of scaling.