Dental scaling is a professional cleaning procedure that removes calculus (hardened plaque) from the teeth, particularly below the gumline. It is performed to treat gum disease or as a preventive measure during regular dental check-ups.
The common myth of dental scaling is it damages to your teeth, which is false. Dental scaling targets calculus and bacterial biofilm, not the enamel or dentin. The tools used are designed to gently remove tartar without harming healthy tooth tissue. However, if any tooth structure is compromised, it’s more likely due to pre-existing decay, abrasion from improper brushing, or acid erosion, not from the scaling process.
Another myth is after scaling causes tooth sensitivity, particularly to cold or sour. This reaction is common and usually temporary. Calculus may have covered tooth sensitive areas and the roots of teeth. Once it is removed, those areas are exposed causing sensitivity. Besides that, if your gums were swollen, they may now start to heal and shrink slightly, exposing more of the tooth.
Some patients report a feeling of tooth looseness after scaling procedure. Thick calculus acts as a false splint, holding your teeth tightly together. Once removed, you might feel spacing or movement. In fact, gum disease may have already caused bone loss that makes teeth looser and scaling just revealed it.
Scaling helps to make your teeth whiter, which is partially true. It removes surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or smoking, giving your teeth a cleaner brighter look but not the natural colour of your teeth. It is important to note that scaling and whitening are two different procedures; scaling removes dirt and calculus, while whitening treatments are designed to lighten the actual shade of your teeth for a more noticeable whitening effect.
In conclusion, dental scaling is safe, helpful, and important for your oral health. While you might feel a bit of sensitivity or notice slight changes at first, these are normal and usually go away soon. Scaling does not damage your teeth but, it protects them. Always talk to us if you have concerns. We are here to help you keep your smile healthy.
Dr. Lim Jia Yee
BDDS (MAHSA UNIVERSITY)
