Types of dental scaling
Not all scaling is the same. Depending on the condition of your teeth and gums, your dentist chooses the right method:
Ultrasonic ultrasound - the most widely used method. A machine emits ultrasonic vibrations that loosen tartar from teeth without damaging enamel. It is fast, effective and painless in most cases. At Smile City we exclusively use ultrasonic scaling for optimal results.
Manual de-artraj - performed with special dental instruments (tweezers, scalers). Recommended for patients with high dental sensitivity or in specific cases indicated by the doctor.
Airflow - is not scaling itself, but a complementary method. It uses a fine stream of water, air and baking soda to remove stains and bacterial plaque from hard-to-reach areas. It is usually performed after scaling as part of a complete hygiene package.
The cost of scaling can vary depending on several factors: the location of the clinic, the experience of the doctor, the technology used and the complexity of the case. Smile City, For those who want a complete hygienist not only to remove tartar, but also to polish teeth and remove fine stains caused by coffee, tobacco or colored food, choose a professional hygiene package at price of 350 RON, which includes dental scaling, brushing, airflow, brushing instruction and primary consultation
What does complete professional hygiene at Smile City include?
At Smile City, professional hygienization means more than just scaling. The complete package includes:
- Ultrasonic ultrasound - removal of supra- and subgingival tartar
- Professional brushing - removing bacterial plaque left after scaling
- Airflow - cleaning stains and interdental areas
- Primary consultation - oral health assessment
- Brushing instructions - personalized for your type of teeth
Smile City full package price: 350 RON
Compared to a simple scaling, the complete package gives you a deep and lasting clean - your teeth stay cleaner for longer.
How often is scaling recommended?
Dentists recommend scaling by at least twice a year - once every 6 months - as part of your dental preventive routine.
However, there are situations in which you should have your teeth cleaned more frequently, every 3-4 months:
- Smokers - nicotine promotes rapid build-up of tartar and stains
- Patients with braces - Bracketites retain plaque more easily
- Patients with gum problems - gingivitis or periodontitis under treatment
- People prone to tartar - there are individual variations in the rate of tartar formation
If you don't know when you last had your teeth cleaned, or you notice visible tartar, bleeding when brushing or unpleasant breath - make an appointment without waiting.
What is dental scaling and why is it important?
Dental scaling is a professional cleaning procedure performed by a dentist to remove tartar (dental calculus) and bacterial plaque that has accumulated on the teeth and subgingival. These deposits, if not removed regularly, can lead to gum disease, inflammation, bleeding, halitosis (bad breath) and, in more serious cases, gum recession and tooth loss.
Tartar cannot be removed at home simply by brushing, no matter how rigorous your personal hygiene. Only through professional scaling can it be thoroughly cleaned, using ultrasonic instruments that break up and loosen tartar without damaging tooth enamel. It is an essential oral health procedure and is recommended for all people, regardless of age.
At Smile City, this procedure is performed with modern equipment and under the careful supervision of specialists, in a safe and comfortable environment for the patient.
Does dental scaling hurt?
One of the most frequently asked questions dentists are asked is: „Does dental scaling hurt?” The answer is „it depends on the sensitivity of each patient.”
Decal scaling is a minimally invasive procedure and, when performed with specialized equipment, does not cause great pain. In some cases, discomfort may occur, especially if the patient has sore gums, receding gums or tooth sensitivity. But this discomfort is short-lived and does not usually require anesthesia.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
The duration of the procedure varies depending on the condition of the patient's teeth. If we are talking about good hygiene and regular scaling (every 6 months), the session lasts no more than 15-20 minutes.
However, in cases where the tartar build-up is massive and oral hygiene is poor, the procedure can take 30-40 minutes or more, especially if professional brushing and airflow is included.
Smile City's complete hygiene package, which includes scaling, brushing and airflow, takes on average 45-60 minutes. The time also includes the primary consultation and instruction on proper brushing. It is a minimal time investment for healthy teeth and a clean smile.
Why is twice-yearly scaling recommended?
Plaque and tartar build up constantly, even in people with good hygiene. Scaling every 6 months helps prevent gingivitis, cavities, bad breath and periodontal problems.
For certain categories of patients, such as smokers, those with braces or those with gum problems, doctors recommend scaling every 3-4 months. Prevention is always cheaper and less invasive than treatment.
Benefits of dental scaling
- Removes tartar and plaque
- Prevents gum and periodontal disease
- Improves the aesthetic appearance of teeth
- Eliminates bad breath
- Increases the effectiveness of daily dental hygiene
- Reduces the risk of cavities and oral infections
In addition to the medical benefits, scaling also offers aesthetic satisfaction: teeth are cleaner, smoother and whiter, even without whitening treatments.
What to do and what to avoid after scaling
Immediately after the procedure, your teeth and gums may be slightly sensitive. This is normal and passes in a few days. To protect the results and avoid discomfort:
Avoid for the first 24-48 hours:
- Very hot or very cold foods - can increase sensitivity
- Sticky or hard foods - nuts, crisps, toffee
- Coloring drinks - coffee, tea, red wine - can stain teeth immediately after cleaning
- Smoking - irritates sensitized gums and reduces the benefits of the procedure
Recommendations after scaling:
Floss daily to maintain results
Gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush in the early days
Antiseptic mouthwash to protect gums
Frequently asked questions about dental scaling
How much does dental scaling cost?
At Smile City, the full package with scaling, airflow, brushing and consultation costs 350 RON.
Does scaling hurt?
The procedure is not painful. You may feel slight discomfort or tenderness, especially if you have existing gingivitis or tooth sensitivity. At Smile City we use gentle techniques and tailor the procedure to each patient's tolerance.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
Between 15 and 60 minutes, depending on the level of limescale and whether you opt for complete sanitization.
At what intervals should I have my teeth cleaned?
Every 6 months, and in some cases more frequently, depending on your doctor's recommendation.
Can I eat immediately after scaling?
No. When done correctly, with professional appliances, scaling does not damage tooth enamel.
Does scaling affect tooth enamel?
Not if done correctly by a specialist. Ultrasonic scaling is specifically designed to remove tartar without damaging enamel or gums.
Does scaling whiten teeth?
No. Scaling removes surface tartar and stains, which can make teeth look brighter and cleaner - but it doesn't change the natural color of enamel. For actual teeth whitening, there are separate procedures.
Can I have scaling if I'm pregnant?
Yes. Scaling is safe and even recommended in pregnancy, as hormonal changes increase the risk of gingivitis. Inform your doctor about your pregnancy before the procedure.
Is the removal under anesthesia?
Usually anesthesia is not necessary. In cases of very high sensitivity or severe inflammation, the doctor may apply a local anesthetic.