Ask the Dentist: Scaling & Polishing

Q: Will visiting the dentist too often for scaling & polishing “thin” the teeth?

A: During a regular dental visit for your six monthly checkup, professional cleaning (scaling & polishing) is done to ensure that plaque (sticky, harmful bacteria) and tartar (plaque that has accumulated and hardened over time) is being removed from your teeth. As tartar cannot be removed by regular toothbrushing, a thorough scaling & polishing session will help to prevent excessive plaque buildup and gum disease.

There is a misconception that one’s teeth have “thinned” as the plaque/tartar that once surrounded the tooth has been removed. Gaps that were once filled would be visible.

Patients can also be reassured that throughout the treatment, none of the dental instruments used would erode patient’s teeth enamel or cause it to thin.

A scaler is used to gently remove the necessary and water is then used to wash it away. At our clinic, this dental instrument has a small scaling tip that produces a soft ultrasonic vibration to loosen any hardened tartar. It is more efficient in removing tartar as compared to a normal dental scaler and curette and is also more comfortable for patients.

After scaling is completed, polishing is done to remove any extrinsic stains and restore your teeth to their natural colour.

With that, remember to visit your dentist twice a year (every six months) for good oral health. Scaling & polishing will not “thin” the teeth, but neglect certainly would. 

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Dr Steven Soo is a Dental Specialist in Prosthodontics with Specialist Dental Group ® . He was formerly a Clinical Lecturer at the Eastman Dental Institute and Clinical Teacher at the GKT Dental Institute, both of which are affiliated with the University of London. Dr Soo has a special interest in prosthetic and implant restorative dentistry. www.specialistdentalgroup.com |6734 9393