A periodic preventive procedure aimed at preventing gum disease by removing mineralized bacterial deposits from the tooth surface and gumline using ultrasonic and hand instruments.
Indication
- Periodic preventive care approximately every 6 months (in healthy gums)
- Gum bleeding, redness, and swelling (signs of gingivitis)
- Visible tartar and stain accumulation
- Increased staining and plaque buildup in smokers
- Hygiene support in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment
- Initial periodontal therapy after periodontitis diagnosis (before root surface debridement)
- Patients with systemic disease (diabetes, heart valve disease) and increased infection risk
Preparation
- Generally no special preparation is required
- Patients with bleeding disorders or those using blood thinners should inform the physician
- An antibiotic plan (with physician recommendation) for cardiac patients requiring endocarditis prophylaxis
- Brushing teeth before the procedure is recommended
How it's performed
- Tooth and gum status are clinically evaluated; pocket depths are measured if necessary
- Tartar is removed using an ultrasonic (cavitron) device with vibration and water cooling
- Fine cleaning of deposits below the gumline is performed using hand instruments (curettes)
- Polishing with a brush or air-pumice may be applied to remove stains
- The tooth surface is polished and fluoride application is performed if needed
- Hygiene recommendations and proper brush-floss technique are demonstrated after the procedure
Post-procedure
- Mild gum sensitivity decreases within the first 24-48 hours
- Regular brushing (twice daily) and flossing are recommended
- Check-up every 6 months in healthy gums; every 3-4 months if periodontal disease is present
- Information that hot-cold sensitivity may be temporary in areas with gum recession
- Early follow-up is recommended if bleeding or signs of inflammation persist
Risks
- Temporary gum sensitivity and mild bleeding (1-3 days)
- Temporary increase in hot-cold sensitivity in areas of gum recession
- Temporary systemic effect due to bacteremia during the procedure in inflamed gums (prophylaxis may be needed in at-risk cardiac patients)
- Tooth surface wear — minimal with proper technique
- Ultrasonic vibration may require physician approval in some patients with pacemakers
FAQ
Does dental scaling damage the teeth?
When performed with proper technique, it does not cause significant damage to the tooth structure. On the contrary, by preventing the chronic irritation that tartar causes on the gums, it helps prevent gum disease.
Have my teeth become more spaced after the cleaning?
It is not actual spacing; the filler effect created by the tartar has been removed. As gum inflammation regresses, the actual anatomical spaces between teeth become visible.
How often should it be done?
Every 6 months is recommended for a healthy mouth. In conditions such as gum disease, smoking, or diabetes, every 3-4 months may be needed.
Is it a painful procedure?
Anesthesia is generally not required. If gum inflammation is advanced, mild discomfort may occur during the procedure; in highly sensitive cases, local anesthesia may be preferred.
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