Tartar Cleaning

Scaling is a dental hygiene procedure to remove calculus (tartar) and dental plaque that accumulate on the surface of the teeth. Tartar is the hard mineral deposits that build up in the mouth over time below the gum line or on the surface of the teeth. Dental plaque, on the other hand, is a sticky layer formed by the combination of bacteria, food debris and saliva and lays the foundation for calculus formation.

Scaling is performed by dentists or dental hygienists and involves the following basic steps:

Assessment: The dentist or dental hygienist performs an oral examination to assess the patient's oral health status and checks for the presence of calculus. Diagnostic tools such as X-rays may also be used.

Plaque Removal: The first step is to remove dental plaque. Plaque accumulated on tooth surfaces is removed using special brushing and flossing techniques.

Tartar Cleaning: Tartar cleaning involves the removal of hardened tartar on tooth surfaces. For this process, the dentist or dental hygienist may use ultrasonic instruments, scarification tools or special hand tools.

Tooth Brushing and Fluoride Application: After cleaning the teeth, the dentist or dental hygienist can assess the patient's brushing and flossing techniques and increase the resistance of the teeth by applying fluoride into the mouth.

Education: During scaling, the patient may receive oral hygiene education. They are informed about proper tooth brushing, flossing and oral care habits.

Scaling helps prevent gum diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) and is important for maintaining dental health. It can also prevent unpleasant conditions such as bad breath. Regular removal of tartar deposits can also help teeth look whiter and brighter.

Therefore, it is important to have scaling done at regular intervals as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist. Also, practicing good oral hygiene at home can help minimize tartar build-up.