What is Scaling and Polishing?

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At Tooth Angels Dental Surgeons, scaling and polishing are essential steps in maintaining optimal oral hygiene and promoting a healthy, confident smile.

Our gentle yet professional approach focuses on effectively removing stains, plaque, and tartar that daily brushing often cannot reach.

During scaling, our team uses specialised instruments to carefully loosen and eliminate these build-ups, followed by a thorough polishing using a soft, spinning brush or rubber cup to smooth the teeth's surfaces, helping to minimise future plaque accumulation.

With regular visits to Tooth Angels, you can catch potential issues like gum disease or cavities early, supporting long-term dental health.

Scaling and Polishing Procedure

Before starting the scaling and polishing treatment, your Tooth Angels dentist will conduct a thorough consultation to examine and assess your dental health.

​This evaluation helps us tailor the treatment to your specific needs and ensures the most effective and comfortable care.

After scaling, your dentist will polish your teeth with a soft rubber cup and a gentle, gritty paste, working in a circular motion to smooth the surfaces and remove any light stains.*

​If desired, an optional fluoride treatment can be applied to further protect your teeth.

​The OHT at Tooth Angels Dental Surgeons gently removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums using precise hand-held or ultrasonic instruments.

​Throughout the procedure, you’ll occasionally rinse your mouth to clear away any loosened plaque or tartar, ensuring a fresh, clean feeling as we work to support your oral health.

​* Polishing cannot remove teeth discolouration or stubborn stains. Based on your condition, your dentist may recommend additional procedures, such as teeth whitening, to achieve your desired results.

Scaling and Polishing - Think of it as a spa treatment for your smile

By removing surface stains caused by coffee, tea or smoking, scaling and polishing can make your teeth appear smoother, cleaner, and brighter.

​However, polishing alone cannot remove deep discolouration or stubborn stains. 

Plaque forms when bacteria bind with food particles on your teeth. If not removed, this plaque can harden over time, turning into tartar.

​Scaling and polishing effectively remove both plaque and tartar from your teeth, helping to protect the enamel and roots from potential damage.

Scaling and polishing can lower the risk of gum disease by preventing plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline.

​This preventive care can also help reduce the risk of other health conditions associated with gum disease, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Bacteria in your mouth can lead to bad breath.

​By thoroughly cleaning your teeth and removing any tartar buildup, you can freshen your breath and speak with confidence. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Scaling and Polishing

What are The Steps for Scaling and Polishing at Tooth Angels Dental Surgeons?

1. Examination – The dentist first conducts a thorough examination to check for any issues. If needed, they assess whether further intervention is required.
2. Polishing – Surface stains and plaque are gently removed, leaving the teeth smoother and brighter.
3. Scaling – Tartar, stubborn stains, and any remaining plaque are carefully removed to ensure a clean surface. A water jet may be used for stubborn stains.
4. Flossing – The teeth are flossed to remove any remaining debris and to check that all surfaces are clean and smooth. At this stage, the patient receives personalised dental hygiene instructions for ongoing care.
5. Final Check – A last check is done to identify any potential dental issues after the flossing step, ensuring a thorough and complete treatment.

How long does scaling and polishing take?

20mins  - 45mins 

How often should I do scaling and polishing?

​3 - 6 months depending on your dental health condition

Is scaling and polishing painful?

Usually not. Our team is gentle and reassuring and will check patient's comfort level during the treatment.

What is the difference betweenScaling and Polishing and Whitening

The scaling and polishing process removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, leaving them polished to look smoother and brighter. This not only enhances the appearance of your teeth but also supports your overall oral health and hygiene.
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In contrast, teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that uses bleaching agents to whiten your teeth, improving their colour but without any impact on oral hygiene.

How Should I take better care of my oral health?

To maintain optimal oral health and hygiene, it’s essential to establish the following habits:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, spending two minutes on each session.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
• Visit your dentist for scaling and polishing every three to six months to keep plaque and tartar under control.

What Are The Benefits of Scaling and Polishing

1. Effective Tartar Removal: Scaling eliminates hard tartar buildup that regular brushing can't address.
2. Prevents Gum Disease: Regular scaling helps prevent gum diseases by removing plaque and tartar.
3. Reduces Tooth Decay: It aids in reducing the risk of tooth decay by eliminating plaque and bacteria.
4. Freshens Breath: Scaling and polishing remove bacteria that cause bad breath, promoting fresher breath.
5. Maintains Oral Health: It contributes to overall oral health and hygiene by preventing potential dental issues.
6. Brighter, Whiter Smile: Polishing removes stains, resulting in a brighter and whiter smile.
7. Saves Money: Preventative care is more cost-effective than treating advanced dental problems.
8. Promotes Long-term Dental Health: Regular cleanings support long-term oral health and potentially avoid major dental procedures.
9. Improves Overall Health: Good oral health is linked to overall well-being, reducing the risk of systemic health issues.
10. Professional Assessment: Dentists can identify potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

Scaling and Polishing Price and Subsidies

$86.11 - $184.21
​Rates depend on the complexity and whether treatment is done by a dentist or a Oral Health Therapist treats.

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Scaling and Polishing Subsidies

If you are Singaporean, you can receive subsidies for dental services, such as scaling and polishing, depending on your eligibility.

These are the subsidies available and the claimable amount per year:

• CHAS Blue card: $50.50
• Merdeka Generation card: $60.50
• Pioneer Generation card: $70.50

​You may claim up to 2 scaling and 2 polishing treatments per year.