Tartar refers to hardened, calcified plaque that provides a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to various dental problems. If not removed promptly, tartar can lead to gingivitis, receding gums, and even tooth loss. So, should you get your teeth scaled? What is the current cost of dental scaling? What are the important considerations when undergoing the procedure? Let’s explore the details with My Auris Dental Clinic HCMC right now.
What is Dental Scaling?
Dental scaling (tartar removal) is a procedure that cleans plaque and tartar accumulated on the tooth surface and below the gumline. This process uses ultrasonic waves from a dental instrument to break down stubborn tartar layers without damaging the gum tissue.
If dental scaling is not performed regularly, bacteria in the plaque will cause gingivitis, the initial sign of periodontitis. If the condition is not controlled promptly, the tissues around the teeth will be damaged, leading to inflammation, pus formation, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
Tartar
Is Dental Scaling Painful? The Truth You Need to Know!
Many people worry about pain during dental scaling, but in reality, the procedure only causes mild tooth sensitivity, especially for those undergoing it for the first time. In subsequent dental scaling sessions, the sensitivity will significantly decrease.
Additionally, bleeding may occur during dental scaling, the extent of which depends on the amount of tartar accumulated and the individual’s tooth sensitivity. After cleaning, drinking hot or cold water may cause discomfort, but this condition will disappear after a few days.
Does Dental Scaling Have Any Impact?
Many people worry that tartar removal can harm their teeth and gums. However, the reality is that this is a crucial step in maintaining oral health and preventing many dangerous dental diseases.
Tartar (dental calculus) is a stubborn layer of plaque formed by saliva, food particles, and bacteria accumulating over a long period. If not removed promptly, tartar can cause gingivitis, tooth decay, and even periodontal disease. Therefore, dentists recommend regular dental check-ups and scaling every 6 months to protect oral health.
Regular dental scaling helps maintain oral hygiene and prevent dangerous conditions such as periodontitis and gingivitis. Cases that should undergo regular dental scaling include:
Individuals with periodontitis: Tartar needs to be removed and root surfaces cleaned to control inflammation.
Time for dental scaling: According to dentist recommendations, dental scaling should be performed every 3-6 months on average.
Presence of excessive abnormal tartar: When tartar forms thickly, adhering both above and below the gumline, it affects aesthetics and oral health.
Pregnant women: Hormonal changes can increase the risk of gingivitis, requiring more thorough oral hygiene.
Before radiotherapy or surgery: Ensure a clean oral cavity to reduce the risk of infection before medical interventions.
Who Should Not Get Dental Scaling?
Although dental scaling offers many benefits, some cases below are advised against the procedure to avoid complications:
Individuals with acute periodontitis, acute gingivitis: If gums are ulcerated or necrotic, treatment is needed before dental scaling.
Patients with upper respiratory tract obstruction: Those who cannot breathe through their nose may experience difficulty during the procedure.
Individuals with acute pulpitis: Those sensitive to the vibration of dental instruments, who easily experience post-scaling sensitivity, should also consider carefully.
Diabetic patients with complications: Severe diabetes can reduce healing capacity, increasing the risk of infection.
Individuals with dangerous infectious diseases: Diseases such as dengue fever, immunodeficiency, or saliva-transmissible diseases can pose high risks during dental scaling.
Individuals with blood clotting disorders: If blood has difficulty clotting or cannot be stopped, dental scaling can cause prolonged bleeding.
Patients with neurological problems, seizures: Those who cannot control their behavior may be at risk during the procedure.
Regular dental scaling every 6 months
Dental Scaling Procedure at My Auris Dental Clinic
Step 1: Oral Examination Before Dental Scaling
Before performing dental scaling, the dentist will conduct an oral examination to assess the condition of tartar and determine the extent of plaque accumulation on the tooth roots. Based on the examination results, the dentist will advise on the appropriate method and explain potential post-scaling reactions such as tooth sensitivity, gum sensitivity, or mild gum bleeding.
Step 2: Identifying Tartar Location
Tartar refers to stubborn plaque that accumulates on the tooth roots, potentially found on both the tooth surface and inside the gum pockets. To locate tartar, dentists use two methods:
Method 1: Using a probe to scan along the tooth root below the gumline; areas with tartar will feel rough.
Method 2: Gently twisting cotton gauze and placing it between teeth to absorb saliva, making it easier to identify areas with hard plaque.
Step 3: Performing Dental Scaling
The dentist will use specialized dental scaling instruments to thoroughly remove tartar and firmly attached plaque around the tooth roots. During the procedure, you may feel slight tooth sensitivity, especially when scaling deep areas. However, skilled dentists will ensure a gentle procedure, minimizing discomfort and gum bleeding.
Step 4: Tooth Polishing to Help Prevent Tartar Recurrence
After thoroughly removing tartar, the dentist will polish the tooth surfaces to smooth the enamel, reduce the accumulation of new plaque, and make the teeth brighter.
Step 5: Instructions for Oral Hygiene and Post-Scaling Care
At the end of the procedure, the dentist will instruct you on proper oral hygiene to prevent tartar from recurring. If necessary, the dentist may prescribe medication to support treatment for cases with gum problems or gingivitis. You will also receive useful advice on at-home oral care to maintain long-term gum health.
How Much Does Dental Scaling Cost?
Currently, at reputable dental clinics, the cost of dental scaling ranges from 200,000 – 700,000 VND per session. In cases of extensive or very hard tartar, multiple treatment sessions may be required, increasing the price to approximately 900,000 – 1,000,000 VND.
To know your exact tartar condition and appropriate pricing, book a consultation at My Auris Dental Clinic HCMC now!
For first-time dental scaling patients, tooth sensitivity may occur
Can You Remove Tartar at Home?
At-home tartar removal is a method many people are interested in, but in reality, it cannot completely eliminate tartar buildup. Furthermore, if performed incorrectly, you could damage your oral cavity or increase the risk of developing oral diseases.
To ensure safe and effective oral hygiene, patients should visit reputable dental facilities for examination and consultation by a maxillofacial dentist. Professional dental scaling procedures provide optimal oral cleaning, minimize complications, and protect long-term oral health.
Attempting to remove tartar at home can lead to many serious problems
Important Notes After Dental Scaling
Dental scaling is a crucial step in oral hygiene, helping to protect gum health and prevent oral diseases. However, depending on the individual, special considerations are needed to ensure safety and effectiveness.
For young children, dental scaling depends on the child’s cooperation. If the child cooperates well, the dentist can perform the procedure similarly to adults. However, it is important to choose an appropriate method to avoid discomfort or affecting the child’s psychology.
Cases with pulpitis, periodontitis, tooth decay, or gum-related diseases can still undergo dental scaling in parallel with treatment. However, a thorough examination by a dentist is required to ensure no discomfort is caused or existing conditions are affected.
Dental scaling for pregnant women is essential to prevent gingivitis and oral infections. However, the most suitable time is the second trimester (from month 4 to month 6 of pregnancy). Avoid performing it in the first and third trimesters to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
If you are looking for a quality dental clinic with an experienced team of dentists, choose My Auris HCMC. With modern equipment, standardized medical procedures, and dedicated care services, My Auris helps you clean tartar, detect early oral health issues, and provide effective treatment solutions.
