What is teeth cleaning?
Even with good brushing, plaque builds up near the gums and hardens into tartar (calculus). A toothbrush cannot remove tartar. It irritates the gums and causes bleeding, bad breath and, over time, gum disease and loose teeth.
Professional cleaning, also called scaling and polishing, removes this tartar and surface stains using an ultrasonic scaler and polishing paste. It is quick, and it is one of the simplest ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Who needs it?
- Gums that bleed when you brush
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Yellow or brown deposits near the gums
- Stains from tea, coffee or tobacco
- Everyone, as a routine every 6 months
How the procedure works
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01
Check-up
We examine your teeth and gums and look for cavities or gum pockets.
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02
Scaling
An ultrasonic scaler with a water spray gently breaks away tartar above and just below the gum line.
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03
Polishing
The teeth are polished smooth to remove stains and make it harder for plaque to stick.
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04
Advice
We show you the right way to brush and floss for your teeth.
Recovery and aftercare
- ✓Teeth may feel sensitive for a day or two. A sensitivity toothpaste helps.
- ✓Gums may bleed lightly for a day. This settles quickly.
- ✓Avoid tea, coffee and strongly coloured food for a few hours.
- ✓Brush twice and floss once a day, and come back in 6 months.
Common questions
Does scaling make teeth weak or loose?+
No. Scaling only removes tartar. Teeth may feel slightly different because tartar that was filling the gaps is gone, but the gums heal and tighten.
Is teeth cleaning painful?+
Most people feel only a mild vibration and water spray. If your gums are sensitive, we can numb the area.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?+
Every 6 months for most people, or every 3–4 months if you have gum disease.
Will cleaning make my teeth whiter?+
It removes surface stains so teeth look brighter, but it does not change their natural colour. Ask us about whitening for that.
How long does it take?+
About 30–45 minutes in a single visit.