Teeth Scaling is a procedure where stains and debris is removed from the surface and in between the teeth and gums using ultrasonic process. It is a non - invasive process and completely painless. Only a single sitting of 45 minutes is required. Teeth Scaling is not the same as Teeth Whitening which involves lightening a shade of teeth using bleaching agent. Scaling of teeth can be done every 6 months to 1 year without causing any harm to the teeth. However, there are a few myths which circulate around, so lets discuss about them.
Teeth scaling does not create gaps between teeth. The appliance used for scaling does not possess so much strength so as to move two teeth apart within the bone socket or cause proximal enamel stripping. It just removes the debris deposited between the two teeth surfaces and exposes the natural space already present.
Teeth Scaling does not cause loosening of tooth. Tooth loosening or tooth mobility is not an easy process. It involves immense force to make a tooth move within a socket. A scaler does not have such force
Teeth Scaling does not cause bleeding gums. When a patient has extensive deposition of debris present along and within the gum line then during scaling there is often bleeding seen. The patient gets anxious on account of excessive blood present and forms a belief as during scaling bleeding is seen. On the contrary, the problem of bleeding gums is treated by deep scaling.
Teeth Scaling does not cause teeth sensitivity. Teeth Scaling is done by ultrasonic tips moving on the surface of teeth. There are nerve endings traversing the teeth from the pulp to its surface. Some endings are very fine go upto the edge or because of attrition or abrasion present on the enamel the nerve endings are often exposed to the surface. So, during the process there might be momentary sensitivity but it does not persist for long term.
Teeth Scaling does not enamel stripping. A different equipment is required for enamel stripping which is the same equipment we cause to remove caries from tooth. It rotates at a certain rpm. However, scaler uses ultrasonic vibration which is not sufficient for enamel stripping.