What Is Dental Scaling?

Dental scaling is a non-surgical procedure performed to clean the surfaces of your teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces both above and below the gum line. If left untreated, plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems.
Scaling is often combined with root planing, a procedure that smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth and reduce inflammation. Together, scaling and root planing are commonly referred to as deep cleaning and are crucial for treating early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) and more advanced conditions like periodontitis.

Why You Need Dental Scaling

Over time, even with proper oral hygiene, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed with professional dental tools. Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, which, if not addressed early, can cause receding gums, bone loss, and tooth loss. Dental scaling is an effective preventative measure to stop these problems before they worsen.
Benefits of Dental Scaling:

The Dental Scaling Procedure

At Cosmodont Dentistry, our skilled dental hygienists perform dental scaling with precision and care. The procedure typically involves the following steps:
1. Examination:
Before the scaling process begins, your dentist or dental hygienist will examine your mouth to assess the condition of your teeth and gums. This helps determine the extent of the cleaning required.
2. Scaling:
Using specialized instruments, the hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and below the gum line. Ultrasonic scaling devices may be used to gently break up tartar with vibrations and water, followed by hand tools to ensure all areas are thoroughly cleaned.
3. Root Planing (if necessary):
If deep pockets of bacteria have formed below the gum line, root planing may be performed. This process smooths the root surfaces, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping your gums heal and reattach to your teeth.
4. Polishing and Fluoride Treatment:
After the scaling and root planing, your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains. In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen your enamel and protect against future decay.
Dental scaling is a routine and safe procedure, but it may take multiple appointments if your gums are severely affected by plaque buildup or gum disease.

Why Choose Cosmodont Dentistry for Dental Scaling in Brampton?

If you need professional dental scaling in Brampton or want to maintain the health of your gums and teeth, schedule an appointment with Cosmodont Dentistry today. Let us help you protect your smile and enjoy long-lasting oral health.

FAQs

Dental scaling is a professional cleaning procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the teeth and beneath the gum line. It helps prevent and treat gum disease, promoting healthier gums and teeth.
The frequency of dental scaling depends on your oral health needs. Most patients benefit from scaling every six months as part of their routine dental cleanings. However, if you have gum disease or are at higher risk for tartar buildup, your dentist may recommend more frequent scaling.
Dental scaling is generally not painful, but some patients may experience mild discomfort, especially if they have sensitive gums or a significant buildup of tartar. Local anesthesia or numbing gels can be used to minimize discomfort during the procedure.
No, dental scaling is more thorough than a regular cleaning. While a routine cleaning focuses on the surfaces of the teeth above the gum line, dental scaling removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, making it an essential treatment for preventing or treating gum disease.
The duration of dental scaling depends on the extent of plaque and tartar buildup and whether both scaling and root planing are needed. A typical session may take 30 minutes to an hour, but more extensive cases may require multiple appointments.
After dental scaling, you may experience mild gum tenderness, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and slight bleeding, which should subside within a few days. Your dentist will provide instructions to help manage any discomfort.
After dental scaling, practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash to keep bacteria at bay. Be sure to attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
Dental scaling is an effective treatment for early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) and can help prevent it from progressing. However, in more advanced cases (periodontitis), scaling may only manage the condition rather than reverse it. Your dentist will recommend the best course of action based on your situation.
Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of dental scaling as part of routine preventive care. However, coverage may vary based on your plan and the severity of your gum disease. Check with your provider for specific details on your coverage.
While dental scaling removes plaque and tartar, it does not directly whiten your teeth. However, it can remove surface stains and improve the overall cleanliness and brightness of your smile. For more noticeable whitening, consider professional teeth whitening treatments in conjunction with scaling.

If you have additional questions or need to schedule a consultation for dental scaling in Brampton, contact Cosmodont Dentistry today! We are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.