Scale and Polish vs Deep Clean : What is the Difference?

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is essential for long-term oral and overall health. Two common dental procedures that play a key role in preventive and therapeutic care are scaling and polishing, and deep cleaning (also known as scaling and root planing). While both treatments involve the removal of plaque and tartar, they differ in purpose, depth, and the conditions they are designed to treat.

In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between a routine scale and polish and a deep clean, helping you understand which treatment may be appropriate for your oral health needs.

What is a scale and polish?

Scaling and polishing is a routine preventive dental procedure typically performed by a dentist or dental hygienist during a regular check-up. Its primary goal is to support and maintain good oral hygiene while preventing common dental problems such as gum disease (gingivitis) and tooth decay.

The procedure involves two key steps.Scaling is the first, where soft plaque and hardened tartar (also known as calculus) are carefully removed from the surfaces of the teeth, especially around the gum line, areas that are often missed during daily brushing.

This is followed by polishing, which smooths the tooth surfaces using a specialised polishing paste. This not only helps remove surface stains but also leaves the teeth feeling cleaner and looking brighter.

A scale and polish is beneficial in maintaining fresh breath, preventing gum inflammation, and removing minor stains and debris that may contribute to long-term oral health issues. For most individuals, it is recommended to have this treatment done every six months. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent sessions depending on your specific oral health needs.

Related Articles:

• Fact or Myth: does scale and polish damage teeth ?
• How teeth scaling and polishing improves your dental health ?

What is a deep clean ?

A deep clean, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive dental procedure typically recommended when signs of gum disease, such as periodontitis, are present. Unlike a routine cleaning, this non-surgical treatment goes deeper below the gum line to remove harmful bacteria and plaque buildup, aiming to stop the progression of gum disease and tooth loss and restore overall gum health.

The procedure involves two key steps. First, scaling is performed to remove plaque and tartar deposits not only from the surface of the teeth but also from below the gum line—an area that cannot be reached through regular brushing or standard dental cleanings. Following this, root planing is carried out to smooth the surfaces of the tooth roots. This helps eliminate bacterial toxins and creates a clean surface that allows the gums to reattach to the teeth more effectively.

The primary goals of a deep clean are to treat moderate to advanced gum disease, reduce gum inflammation and bleeding, and help prevent further issues such as tooth mobility or loss. Additionally, the treatment encourages the healing of gum tissue and halts the progression of periodontal damage.

Depending on the severity of the condition, local anaesthesia may be administered to ensure patient comfort, and the treatment may be divided over multiple visits. Post-treatment care and ongoing maintenance, including regular dental check-ups and improved oral hygiene habits, are essential to ensure long-term success.

How do scaling and deep clean differ ?

Which option is right for you?

The choice between a scaling and polishing is good for teeth and a deep clean depends on your oral health status. If your gums are generally healthy and you’re maintaining good hygiene, a regular scale and polish is sufficient. However, if you show signs of gum disease such as persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning.

A comprehensive dental examination, including gum measurements and X-rays if needed, will help determine the most appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

While both scale and polish and deep cleaning procedures aim to remove plaque and tartar, they serve different purposes in oral care. The former is ideal for preventive maintenance, while the latter is a necessary treatment for managing and reversing gum disease. Understanding the distinction between the two can help you take proactive steps toward better oral health.

Regular dental visits, good at-home hygiene, and early intervention are key to maintaining a healthy smile. If you’re unsure which type of cleaning you need, consult your dentist for a personalised assessment.

Ready to book your appointment for a regular scaling and polishing? Simply leave us a message here and we will be right with you!