Scaling & Polishing
Remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains with a thorough professional clean keeping your gums healthy and your smile fresh between visits.
What Is Scaling & Polishing?
A deeper clean than brushing alone can give
Scaling removes plaque and tartar hardened plaque that brushing alone can no longer shift from the surface of your teeth and along and below the gumline, using fine instruments or an ultrasonic scaler.
Once tartar has hardened, it can only be removed professionally; this is why regular scaling matters even for patients with a solid home care routine. Left untreated, built-up tartar irritates the gums and can eventually contribute to gum disease.
Polishing follows to smooth the tooth surface, lifting surface stains from tea, coffee, or everyday food, and leaving teeth smoother, brighter, and more resistant to new plaque sticking in the days after your visit. Together, scaling and polishing form the foundation of preventive dental care.
Why It Matters
Small habit, big difference
A regular professional clean protects far more than just the look of your smile.
Removes Stubborn Tartar
Clears hardened tartar that brushing and flossing at home simply can't remove.
Prevents Gum Disease
Removing tartar buildup near the gumline reduces irritation and lowers the risk of gum disease over time.
Freshens Breath
Clearing away bacteria and buildup helps address one of the most common causes of persistent bad breath.
Smoother, Brighter Teeth
Polishing lifts surface stains and leaves teeth noticeably smoother right away.
Early Detection During Cleaning
A cleaning visit is also a chance to catch early signs of decay or gum issues before they become bigger problems.
Quick, Comfortable Visit
A routine session is typically done in well under an hour, with no downtime afterward.
Who Needs This
Signs it's time for a professional clean
Regular scaling and polishing every six months keeps most patients on track a few signs mean it's worth booking sooner.
- You're Likely Due For a Clean If
- It's been 6 months or more since your last professional cleaning
- You notice visible tartar or discolouration near the gumline
- Your gums bleed when brushing or flossing
- You have persistent bad breath
- May Need Additional Treatment First
- Signs of advanced gum disease may call for a deeper root planing treatment
- Significant tartar buildup below the gumline may need a more thorough first session
- Any untreated decay should be addressed alongside your cleaning
Your dentist will assess your gum and tooth health at the start of your visit and let you know if anything beyond a standard clean is needed.
Ready When You Are
Keep your smile healthy between visits
Book your next scaling and polishing session today.