Dental Scaling Procedure:

Initial Assessment:

• The process typically begins with an initial assessment by a dental professional to evaluate the patient's oral health and determine the need for scaling. The dental professional will visually inspect the teeth and gums, assess plaque and tartar buildup, and discuss the treatment plan with the patient.

Ultrasonic Scaling:

• The scaling procedure usually starts with ultrasonic scaling, which involves using a handheld ultrasonic device to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the surfaces of the teeth. The ultrasonic scaler emits high-frequency vibrations and a stream of water to gently dislodge and flush away deposits without causing damage to the teeth.

Hand Scaling:

• After ultrasonic scaling, the dental professional may use hand scaling instruments, such as scalers and curettes, to manually remove any remaining plaque and tartar from the teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas and along the gumline. Hand scaling allows for more precise cleaning and ensures that all surfaces of the teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

Polishing:

• Once the teeth are thoroughly scaled and cleaned, the dental professional may polish the surfaces of the teeth using a special polishing paste and a rotating polishing tool. Polishing helps to smooth out rough surfaces, remove surface stains, and create a clean, glossy finish on the teeth.

Fluoride Treatment (optional):

• In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to the teeth after scaling and polishing to strengthen the enamel and help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is applied as a gel, foam, or varnish and left on the teeth for a few minutes before being rinsed off. Fluoride treatment is especially beneficial for patients at higher risk of cavities.