Scaling & gum treatment
Tartar is hardened plaque that brushing cannot remove. Scaling cleans it off the teeth, both above the gum line (supra-gingival) and below it (sub-gingival). Where gum disease has created deeper pockets, root planing smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal.
Signs of gum disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Gums pulling back so the teeth look longer
- Teeth that feel loose or are moving
- Hard yellow or brown deposits along the gum line
Early gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed. Left untreated it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone that holds teeth in place.
What happens, step by step
- Gum examination
We check the gums and measure the pockets around the teeth. X-rays may be taken if bone loss is suspected.
- Scaling
Tartar and plaque are removed above and below the gum line, usually with an ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments.
- Root planing (if needed)
For deeper pockets the root surfaces are cleaned and smoothed. This may be done in sections and under local anaesthetic.
- Review
We check how the gums have responded and advise how often you should come back.
How many visits? A routine scaling is usually a single visit. Deeper gum treatment can take more.
Afterwards
- Teeth can feel sensitive for a few days.
- Some bleeding when brushing in the first days is normal and should reduce as the gums heal.
- Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily to stop tartar building up again.
Doctors who provide scaling & gum treatment
Questions about scaling & gum treatment
Does scaling damage the enamel or loosen teeth?
No. Scaling removes deposits from the tooth surface; done properly it does not weaken enamel. Teeth can feel slightly loose or gaps can look bigger afterwards because tartar was filling those spaces, not because scaling caused damage.
How often do I need scaling?
It depends on how quickly tartar builds up for you and the health of your gums. We will recommend an interval after your examination.
Why do my gums bleed after scaling?
Inflamed gums bleed easily. As the inflammation settles after cleaning, bleeding usually reduces over the following weeks.
Clinical content reviewed by Dr. Navin Sah. This page explains the treatment in general terms. Your own plan is decided after an examination.
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