Professional scaling is a dental procedure that removes plaque and tartar accumulated on tooth surfaces and below the gum line. Unlike daily brushing and flossing, professional scaling uses specialized instruments and ultrasound to remove mineralized tartar that has hardened and cannot be removed by home methods. Tartar, also called dental calculus, forms when dental plaque (bacterial film) mineralizes and becomes hard. At Longchamp Dental, we use the most modern ultrasonic equipment for effective and comfortable scaling.
Although terms are often used interchangeably, it's important to understand the difference. Dental plaque is a soft, sticky substance composed of bacteria and their residue, that forms continuously on your teeth. It can be removed by regular brushing and flossing. Tartar, on the other hand, is plaque that has mineralized and hardened, becoming extremely difficult to remove. Only professional scaling can effectively remove tartar. If plaque is not regularly removed, it mineralizes into tartar that progressively accumulates and can cause serious problems.
Professional scaling is crucial for several reasons. First, removing tartar prevents tooth decay because tartar can trap bacteria and acids that cause cavities. Second, tartar irritates gums and causes inflammation, leading to periodontal disease. Removing tartar regularly prevents periodontitis that can cause tooth loss. Third, tartar accumulation can cause bad breath. Fourth, for patients with dental implants, professional scaling is even more important because implants are sensitive to the same bacteria that cause peri-implantitis.
For most people, professional scaling every 6 months is recommended. However, patients with history of periodontal disease, smokers, diabetics, or patients with dental implants could benefit from more frequent scaling (every 3-4 months). At Longchamp Dental, we evaluate your individual risk and recommend a scaling schedule adapted to your specific situation.
Ultrasonic scaling uses high-frequency vibrations to break tartar without damaging tooth surface. A small vibrating tip is applied against the tartar, and vibrations fragment it. The equipment simultaneously produces a jet of warm water that eliminates tartar fragments and keeps the area clean and cool. Ultrasonic technique is fast, effective, and relatively comfortable. After ultrasonic scaling, manual scaling with curettes may be used for hard-to-reach areas.
After scaling, we typically apply specialized polishing paste to smooth tooth surfaces, remove light stains, and leave a shiny finish. We often also apply topical fluoride gel that helps desensitize teeth and strengthens enamel. This leaves your teeth smooth, shiny, and protected.
Some patients experience temporary tooth sensitivity after scaling, particularly if tartar accumulation was heavy. This is normal and usually disappears within a few days. We recommend using desensitizing toothpaste for a few days after scaling and avoiding very hot or cold foods or drinks for the first 24 hours.
If you haven't had professional scaling in more than 6 months, or if you have dental implants, now is the ideal time to schedule an appointment at Longchamp Dental Clinic. Call us at +212 5 22 36 13 24 or send a WhatsApp message to +212 6 61 41 95 95. Our team will create a scaling schedule adapted to your specific needs.
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