In this guide
Review note
General patient education only. Your dentist may recommend a different cleaning approach depending on gum health.
Use this guide to better understand the topic, identify useful questions and prepare for a more informed conversation with your dentist.
What is scaling and polishing?
Scaling removes plaque and hardened deposits from tooth surfaces. Polishing smooths selected surfaces and can remove some external staining. Patients with gum disease may need deeper periodontal treatment instead of, or in addition to, routine cleaning.
What happens during the visit?
The dental team assesses your teeth and gums, removes deposits with appropriate instruments, and gives hygiene advice based on what they find.
- Tell the team about sensitivity or medical concerns.
- Ask how often professional cleaning is appropriate for your individual risk.
- Continue daily brushing and interdental cleaning between visits.
Clinical context
Individual dental assessment matters.
Dental information can help you understand a topic, but symptoms that appear similar can have different causes and treatment needs.
If you are concerned about your own oral health, a dentist can assess the situation and discuss what may be appropriate for you.
Explore further
Related treatments
Treatment links are provided for further reading and do not mean that a particular treatment is suitable for every person.