What Is Scaling?

Visiting your dental team for routine exams and cleanings is key to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. In addition to these visits, some individuals may benefit from deep cleaning procedures, like dental scaling.

Scaling is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup and prevents the progression of gum disease.

What Is Dental Scaling?

Dental scaling is a deep cleaning procedure aimed at removing plaque and tartar from teeth and below the gumline. It is often performed alongside root planing, a process that smooths the tooth root to help gums reattach to the tooth.

Unlike routine cleanings that focus on the tooth’s surface, dental scaling targets the pockets between the gums and teeth in cases of gum disease. It is an important step in treating periodontal issues and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Gum Disease & Plaque Buildup

Scaling helps prevent the progression of gum disease and removes plaque and tartar buildup. 

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, begins as gingivitis. Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue around teeth.

Without treatment, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and destroy your jawbone, making your body more susceptible to infections.  

Symptoms of gum disease often include: 

• Swollen or puffy gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Painful chewing
• Receding gum line 

Factors that increase your risk of gum disease can include: 

• Gingivitis 
• Poor oral health care habits
• Poor nutrition
• Certain medications

Plaque buildup is a primary cause of gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, feeding on sugars from our food and drink. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, further exacerbating gum irritation. Only a dental professional can remove tartar.

Symptoms of dental plaque include: 

• Bad breath that does not go away
• Red, swollen gums that bleed after brushing

Extreme dental tartar can lead to complications, including: 

• Cavities 
• Gingivitis and gum disease
• Tooth infection
• Tooth loss

Having plaque buildup is normal. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing once a day helps to remove plaque and prevent the buildup of tartar.  

How Scaling Helps Improve Oral Hygiene

By removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, dental scaling interrupts the cycle of gum disease. It reduces the depth of the pockets formed between the gums and teeth, allowing the gums to heal and reattach more firmly to the teeth. 

Advanced gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss. By keeping gums healthy through scaling, you are helping to safeguard your teeth by preventing the progression of gum disease. Plaque, tartar, and bacteria can accumulate to lead to chronic bad breath. Regular dental scaling helps remove this buildup and keep your breath fresh.

Research suggests a link between oral health issues like gum disease and systemic health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Procedures like dental scaling can help maintain good oral hygiene and contribute to your overall health.

What to Expect During a Scaling Procedure

Undergoing dental scaling can be an unfamiliar experience, so knowing what to expect can ease any concerns. 

Dental scaling is performed by your dentist or dental hygienist using specialized instruments. These tools can be manual scalers or ultrasonic instruments that use vibrations to break up tartar and plaque, coupled with water irrigation to wash away the debris. Local anesthesia can be used to minimize discomfort, especially in cases of significant sensitivity or deep cleaning.

The frequency of dental scaling depends on your oral health status. Those with signs of gum disease might need immediate scaling, followed by periodic maintenance. Your dental team will tailor a schedule based on your specific needs.

After Care Following Your Scaling Procedure

After scaling, it is common to experience some sensitivity and minor bleeding. Specific care instructions must be followed for a quick and comfortable recovery.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

• Gentle brushing: Brush your teeth gently twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be gentle around the gum line to avoid irritation.
• Floss carefully: Continue flossing daily, but be gentle with the areas that have been scaled to prevent discomfort.
• Antiseptic mouthwash: If your dentist recommends it, use it. This can help with healing and keep the area clean.
• Saltwater rinses: Rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution can aid in healing. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse with it a few times a day.

Manage Sensitivity & Discomfort

• Sensitivity: Teeth may be sensitive to temperature changes and sweetness for a few days to a week. Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to help manage this.
• Discomfort: Over-the-counter pain relief medication can help alleviate any discomfort.

Maintain a Gentle Diet

• Avoid hard or crunchy foods: For a few days after the procedure, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that might irritate your gums.
• Opt for soft foods: Soft foods like yogurt, eggs, and mashed potatoes place less stress on your gums while they heal post-procedure.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help with healing and cleanliness in the mouth.

Monitor for Signs of Infection

Your dentist may schedule a follow-up visit to check on your healing progress and perform more cleanings if needed. Make sure to attend these appointments.

Be alert to signs of infection, such as increased swelling, severe pain, or bleeding that does not stop. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately.

Schedule Your Appointment

A scaling procedure may appear daunting, but it is a proactive step in preserving your dental and overall health. Take care of yourself today by connecting with our South Ancaster Family Dental team to schedule your next routine dental exam!