Scale and Polish Dental Care: Supporting a Healthy Smile

Maintaining good oral health plays an important role in your overall wellbeing. Regular professional teeth cleaning and dental hygiene care, combined with daily home routines, can help reduce the risk of problems such as gum inflammation and tooth decay. One commonly recommended preventive treatment is a scale and polish, which helps manage plaque and tartar buildup.

Below is an overview of what the procedure involves, what to expect, and how it may support your oral health.

What Is Scale and Polish Dental Care?

A scale and polish dental treatment is a professional cleaning performed by a dentist, oral health therapist or hygienist. It generally involves two steps:

1. Scaling

Scaling aims to gently remove plaque and hardened deposits (tartar) from the surfaces of the teeth and around the gumline. Plaque is a soft film of bacteria that forms naturally on teeth; if not cleaned regularly, it can harden into tartar, which requires professional dental cleaning.

2. Polishing

Once the teeth are scaled, a polishing paste and rotating brush are used to smooth the tooth surfaces. Smoother surfaces may make it more difficult for plaque to adhere and can help your smile look and feel cleaner.

The length of the professional scale and polish appointment varies depending on individual needs and the amount of buildup present.

Potential Benefits of Scale and Polish Care

A regular scale and polish may offer several oral health benefits, including:

• Supporting gum health: Removing plaque and tartar may help reduce the risk of gum inflammation.

• Managing bad breath: Professional teeth cleaning can help address bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odours.

• Refreshing your smile: Polishing may help reduce the appearance of surface stains from everyday foods and drinks.

• Supporting general wellbeing: Research suggests there are associations between oral health and certain general health conditions.

• Preventive support: Ongoing dental hygiene care may reduce the likelihood of needing more complex dental treatment.

Your dental professional can advise how often this type of cleaning is appropriate based on your individual oral health needs.

Is a Scale and Polish Suitable for Everyone?

When performed by a trained dental professional, a scale and polish dental treatment is considered safe. Scaling is designed to remove deposits without damaging the enamel, and polishing helps smooth the tooth surfaces.

Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or mild gum irritation after treatment. If you have concerns—such as sensitive teeth, gum issues, or medical considerations—your dental practitioner can adjust the procedure to ensure your comfort.

A professional scale and polish may be especially helpful if you:

• Smoke or use tobacco products

• Consume frequent coffee, tea, or red wine

• Wear braces or other dental appliances

• Experience plaque buildup more easily

• Have a history of gum concerns

Your clinician will always discuss the potential benefits and risks with you before proceeding.

Preparing for Your Appointment

A few simple steps can help you feel prepared:

• Brush and floss before your visit to remove loose debris.

• Let your dental practitioner know about any medical conditions, allergies, or medications.

• Avoid eating immediately beforehand if you find it uncomfortable.

• Ask any questions you may have about the procedure—your dental team is there to support you.

Mild sensitivity after the appointment is common and should subside within a short time. Drinking water and avoiding very hot or cold foods temporarily may help.

Caring for Your Smile Between Visits

Daily oral hygiene is essential in maintaining the benefits of your professional teeth cleaning. You can support your oral health by:

• Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

• Flossing or cleaning between teeth daily

• Using an antibacterial mouthwash if recommended

• Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks

• Drinking plenty of water

• Avoiding tobacco products

• Attending routine dental check-ups as advised by your clinician

These habits work together with scale and polish dental care to help maintain a clean, healthy smile.

Taking the Next Step

A scale and polish is a helpful preventive treatment that may support your oral health and help you maintain a fresh, clean smile. If you’re due for a check-up or have questions about your oral health, your dental professional can provide personalised advice based on your unique needs.

Disclaimer (AHPRA-Compliant)

This information is general in nature and does not replace personalised advice from a registered dental professional. Your clinician can assess your individual oral health and recommend appropriate care.