Scaling and Polishing by Ashford Dental

Our teeth and gums are utilised everyday. The oral cavity also has a high load of bacteria at any given time. The chemical dynamics within the oral cavity allows the accumulation and hardening of plaque and bacteria no matter how well and often we brush and floss our teeth. For these reasons, our teeth and gums require regular maintenance to ensure good health and longevity.Scaling and polishing is the procedure of removing plaque, bacteria and calculus (hardened plaque) from your teeth and gums.

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What Is Scaling and Polishing?

Scaling and polishing is a non‑surgical dental procedure designed to remove plaque, tartar (calculus) and surface stains from the teeth.

  • Scaling removes hardened tartar and plaque from above and below the gum line using ultrasonic or manual instruments.
  • Polishing smoothens the tooth surfaces using a polishing paste, helping remove stains and making it harder for plaque to stick again.

Together, these steps help protect your teeth and gums while improving overall oral hygiene and appearance.

Why Scaling and Polishing Is Important for Oral Health

Even with excellent daily oral care, plaque can accumulate in areas that toothbrushes and floss cannot reach. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist.

If left untreated, tartar buildup may lead to:

  • Gum inflammation (gingivitis)
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Gum recession
  • Periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
  • Tooth loss

Professional scaling and polishing helps prevent these problems and supports long‑term oral health

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Our Scaling and Polishing Treatment Expert Dentists

Dr. Hardev Singh

Clinical Director
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Dr. Cindy Ho

Senior Associate Dental Surgeon
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Dr. Saba Raza

Senior Associate Dental Surgeon
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Ashford Dental Centre

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You may benefit from scaling and polishing if you experience:

  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Yellow or brown stains on teeth
  • Tartar buildup along the gum line
  • Gum swelling or redness
  • Sensitivity due to plaque accumulation

Many dentists in Singapore recommend routine scaling and polishing even if no symptoms are present.

Scaling and Polishing Procedure

Scaling and polishing is generally safe and comfortable for most patients. Mild discomfort or sensitivity may occur, especially if:

  • There is heavy tartar buildup
  • Gums are inflamed
  • Teeth are sensitive

For patients with sensitive gums or anxiety, numbing gel or local anaesthesia can be used. Clinical studies confirm that routine scaling and polishing does not damage enamel when performed professionally.

How often can it be done?

This will largely depend on your level of oral hygiene. It is generally recommended to have the scaling and polishing procedure done every 6 months. However, in certain cases, we may recommend that it is done every 3 months instead. Such cases include:

  • Where someone has not visited a dentist in a long time 
  • Where there is generalized gum disease present 
  • Where a patient has specific medical conditions or takes certain medication affecting oral hygiene 
  • Where a patient’s oral cavity biochemistry leads to formation of calculus (hardened plaque) at a much faster rate 
  • Moderate or heavy smokers 

Benefits of Scaling and Polishing

Professional scaling and polishing offers several long‑term benefits:

  • Prevents gum disease and tooth loss
  • Reduces bad breath
  • Removes plaque, tartar and stains
  • Improves gum health
  • Enhances smile appearance
  • Helps detect dental problems early
  • Supports overall health, as gum disease is linked to systemic conditions

Scaling and Polishing vs Deep Cleaning (Root Planing)

Many patients confuse routine scaling with deep cleaning.

  • Scaling and polishing is preventive care for patients with healthy gums or mild gingivitis.
  • Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is required for patients with periodontitis and involves cleaning deep gum pockets below the gum line.

Your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment based on your gum condition.

After your session, you may experience mild sensitivity. To ensure proper healing:

  • Avoid very hot or cold foods for 24 hours
  • Use a soft‑bristled toothbrush
  • Maintain good oral hygiene
  • Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours
  • Follow any dentist‑recommended toothpaste or mouthwash

Sensitivity usually subsides within a day or two.

Common Myths About Scaling and Polishing

  • Myth: Scaling damages enamel
    Fact: Professional scaling is safe and does not harm enamel.
  • Myth: It causes teeth to loosen
    Fact: Teeth may feel loose temporarily due to reduced inflammation, not damage.
  • Myth: It creates gaps between teeth
    Fact: Removed tartar reveals natural spacing that was previously hidden.

Choosing the Right Dental Clinic for Scaling and Polishing in Singapore

When selecting a dental clinic, consider:

  • Qualified and experienced dentists
  • Modern equipment and hygiene standards
  • Transparent pricing
  • Gentle patient‑centred approach
  • Positive patient reviews

Reputable dental clinics in Singapore follow strict infection control protocols and provide personalised care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Polishing Treatment in Singapore

Does scaling and polishing have benefits for your teeth?

Your dentist may suggest a scale and polish to keep gum disease in check or prevent it from worsening, lowering the risk of dental issues.

Does scaling and polishing cause pain?

No, you should not experience pain during the scale and polish procedure, however, you may feel unfamiliar sensations in your mouth. This could involve a scraping feeling or a tickling sensation in your gums. If you are extremely anxious about dental pain, a numbing gel can be applied.

What is the recommended frequency for scaling and polishing?

It is advisable to see the dentist for dental scaling and polishing once or twice annually. Scaling is a common practice used to eliminate tough tartar and plaque accumulation situated below the gum line.

Can scaling and polishing make teeth whiter?

Sure. A scale and polish is mainly intended for cleaning and maintaining oral health, while teeth whitening treatments are specifically for whitening teeth. Having said that, getting a scale and polish will make teeth appear smoother, shinier, and whiter post-treatment.

Is it okay to brush our teeth after getting a scaling procedure done?

Gently brush the area that has been treated on the first night. The following day, start flossing the area gently, then slowly transition back to your regular brushing and flossing routine within the next week. It is common to feel a certain level of sensitivity to heat, cold, and pressure following your visit. You might experience gum discomfort for a few days.

Do teeth require scaling?

Scaling and root planing are vital dental procedures necessary for upholding good oral health. By getting rid of plaque and tartar that accumulate on the teeth and gums, it is possible to prevent dental cavities and gum disease.

Is it okay to eat after getting scaling done?

You can have a meal once you feel prepared to do it. However, this is assuming that you only underwent a thorough dental cleaning. After your dentist performs a cleaning and fluoride treatment, you must wait for a minimum of thirty minutes. Fluoride treatments are frequently administered to enhance the strength of your teeth.

Is it possible for me to conduct scaling on a monthly basis?

How often teeth scaling is done varies based on a person’s unique oral health requirements. Usually, it is advised to do so every six to twelve months.

Is it common for teeth to shift following a dental cleaning?

When debris and calculus are removed by doctors, the teeth could quickly begin shifting without their harmful companions. If the teeth can be repositioned through scaling, it is solely because there is already an underlying disease present.

What to avoid after scaling?

You may experience sensitivity in your teeth when exposed to very hot or cold temperatures as well as sweet foods. Stick to eating and drinking warm items until the sensitivity decreases. Some slight bleeding might happen when brushing, but it should cease within two to three days. Refrain from consuming hot food and drinks temporarily and avoid rinsing your mouth to promote optimal healing.

Is it necessary to polish after scaling?

While not required, polishing teeth post-scaling is beneficial in eliminating stains and bacteria from tooth roots that are unreachable during the typical scaling process.

Is it possible for me to perform teeth scaling on my own at home?

At appointments, a professional dental hygienist can use a dental scaler and other tools to get rid of any plaque and tartar that was not removed. Keeping plaque away is important for maintaining a healthy mouth, and it is possible to safely eliminate existing plaque and stop new plaque from developing. However, you do not want to take the chance of causing dental problems by using a plaque scraper on your own.

Is it possible for scaling to eliminate stains?

Scaling can also eliminate discoloration caused by coffee, tea, and tobacco use on your teeth.

Scaling and Polishing Cost in Singapore

The cost of scaling and polishing at our dental clinic in Singapore varies depending on the patient’s oral condition and the complexity of the procedure. To help manage treatment expenses, we offer various financing options, including insurance coverage and Medisave claims. Singaporeans can also benefit from subsidies provided under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS). Additionally, Ashford offers flexible in-house installment plans to accommodate your financial preferences. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized financial solutions tailored to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Visit Our Dental Clinics

The Ashford Group has 4 strategically located dental clinic facilities islandwide across Singapore, in Thomson, Serangoon, Simpang Bedok and Jalan Kayu.

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+65 6690 4691 Ashford Thomson | +65 6690 3163 Ashford Serangoon |
+65 6690 4903 Ashford Bedok





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