Scaling and Polishing for a Healthy Smile

What is Scaling and Polishing?

Scaling and polishing is a professional dental cleaning procedure that removes plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and surface stains from your teeth. If left untreated, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and even tooth decay.

Even with regular brushing and flossing, some areas of the mouth are difficult to clean properly, allowing dental plaque and calculus to accumulate over time. At Dental Designs Clinic, we provide thorough, gentle, and effective professional cleaning, reaching areas that brushing and flossing might miss—all while keeping your comfort in mind.

What is Dental Plaque?

Dental plaque is a thin, sticky layer that constantly forms on your teeth. It’s made up of bacteria and begins to build up almost immediately after brushing. Plaque is usually soft and colourless or whitish, but it becomes more noticeable as it thickens. You may even be able to scrape it off with your fingernail, especially if you’ve eaten sugary or starchy foods.

What is Tartar/Calculus?

As plaque continues to build up, it can trap food particles, bacteria, and pigments from drinks like coffee and tea, or from smoking, eventually hardening into tartar. Tartar provides a rough surface where bacteria can thrive, leading to the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. It can irritate the gums, causing inflammation, persistent bad breath, and more serious dental issues, including tooth sensitivity and even tooth loss.

Keep Plaque and Tartar in Check

Maintaining good oral hygiene—such as flossing and brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste—and staying hydrated helps keep plaque under control. The key to preventing build-up is stopping it before it forms, and consistent oral care plays a crucial role in this. As tartar is a hardened substance that firmly attaches to the teeth, it can only be removed through professional scaling by a dentist.

Book A Scaling and Polishing Appointment

Scaling

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and along the gumline. This is done using an ultrasonic scaler, which gently vibrates to break up tartar while flushing out debris with water. If plaque and tartar are left to build up, they create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Deep Cleaning

In some cases, tartar can extend beneath the gums and attach to the root surfaces of teeth. When this happens, deep cleaning (also known as root planing) is required to clean out bacteria from the gum pockets. To ensure comfort during this dental procedure, a local anesthetic may be administered to numb the area before cleaning.
Polishing

Polishing helps to smooth the surfaces of your teeth. One common method of polishing involves using a rotating brush combined with a mildly abrasive polishing paste. The brush moves in a circular motion to gently buff away stains caused by food, beverages, and everyday wear, leaving the teeth feeling smooth and refreshed

What is ProphyJet Stain Removal?

Stubborn stains, such as those caused by smoking or drinking tea, may not be fully removed by dental scaling and polishing alone. For patients dealing with these persistent stains, we use a specialised polishing tool called the ProphyJet. This instrument uses a combination of water and fine powder particles, which are sprayed at high pressure to effectively break down and remove even the toughest stains.

The ProphyJet can reach areas that are difficult to access with conventional instruments, such as between the teeth and along the gumline. This ensures a thorough stain removal, leaving your teeth visibly cleaner and brighter.

Strengthens Enamel

Remineralises Weak Spots

Prevents Cavities

Reduces Sensitivity

Relieves Discomfort Caused By Receding Gums

Promotes Oral Health

What is Fluoride Application?

Fluoride treatment is a quick and simple procedure that offers long-term benefits for your dental health! It’s recommended to get a fluoride treatment after teeth cleaning, as it aids in remineralising and strengthening the tooth enamel. Fluoride treatment also protects against cavities, helps reduce tooth sensitivity and alleviates discomfort associated with gum recession (exposed roots due to gums pulling away from the tooth).

A gentle and safe fluoride gel is commonly used for most patients. For those with recurrent caries (frequent cavities) or high tooth sensitivity, a high-strength fluoride varnish treatment may be recommended.

Feature

Number of implants needed

Implant placement

Implant angulation

Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning

Treatment timeline

Traditional Implants

Requires one implant for each missing tooth

Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing

Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone

High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity

Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed

All-on-4 Implants

Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth

Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density

Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees

Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures

You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Overall cost of treatment is reduced

Stable implants and artificial teeth

Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently

Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient

Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery

Feature

Number of implants needed

Implant placement

Implant angulation

Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning

Treatment timeline

Traditional Implants

Requires one implant for each missing tooth

Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing

Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone

High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity

Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed

All-on-4 Implants

Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth

Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density

Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees

Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures

You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Overall cost of treatment is reduced

Stable implants and artificial teeth

Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently

Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient

Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery

Feature

Number of implants needed

Implant placement

Implant angulation

Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning

Treatment timeline

Traditional Implants

Requires one implant for each missing tooth

Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing

Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone

High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity

Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed

All-on-4 Implants

Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth

Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density

Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees

Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures

You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Overall cost of treatment is reduced

Stable implants and artificial teeth

Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently

Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient

Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery

Feature

Number of implants needed

Implant placement

Implant angulation

Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning

Treatment timeline

Traditional Implants

Requires one implant for each missing tooth

Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing

Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone

High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity

Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed

All-on-4 Implants

Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth

Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density

Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees

Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures

You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Overall cost of treatment is reduced

Stable implants and artificial teeth

Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently

Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient

Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery

Feature

Fluoride Concentration

Form

Fluoride Absorption

Recommended For

Who Applies It

Usage Frequency

Toothpaste

1,000 - 1,500 ppm

Paste or gel

Moderate

General use, cavity prevention

Self-applied

Daily

Fluoride Gel

12,300 ppm

Gel

High

Moderate-risk patients

Dental professional

Every 3-6 months

Fluoride Varnish

22,600 ppm

Viscous varnish

Very high (slow release over time)

High-risk patients

Dental professional

Every 3-6 months

Feature

Fluoride Concentration

Form

Fluoride Absorption

Recommended For

Who Applies It

Usage Frequency

Toothpaste

1,000 - 1,500 ppm

Paste or gel

Moderate

General use, cavity prevention

Self-applied

Daily

Fluoride Gel

12,300 ppm

Gel

High

Moderate-risk patients

Dental professional

Every 3-6 months

Fluoride Varnish

22,600 ppm

Viscous varnish

Very high (slow release over time)

High-risk patients

Dental professional

Every 3-6 months

What Are The Benefits Of Scaling And Polishing?

Prevents Gum Disease

Regular scaling and polishing removes bacteria that can cause oral health conditions such as bleeding gums, gum inflammation, and periodontal disease.

Prevents Tooth Decay (Cavities)

By removing plaque and tartar, scaling helps reduce the build-up of harmful bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria produce acids that can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities (caries). Regular scaling and polishing reduce the chances of tooth decay by keeping your teeth cleaner and free from harmful buildup.

Fresher Breath

Bacteria and food particles trapped in plaque and tartar can contribute to persistent bad breath. Scaling and polishing remove these particles and help eliminate the source of the odour, leading to fresher breath.

image 256 (4)

Brighter Smile

Scaling and polishing helps smooth out the surface of your teeth and removes stains caused by food, drinks, and smoking. This leaves your teeth looking brighter and more polished, which can boost your confidence in your smile.

Identifies Dental Problems Early

During the scaling and polishing procedure, your dentist or hygienist has a chance to closely examine your teeth and gums for early signs of issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral infections. Detecting these problems early helps ensure prompt treatment and reduces the need for more extensive procedures in the future.

image 256 (1)-1

Promotes Overall Health

Oral health is linked to overall health, and by preventing oral diseases such as gum disease, you’re also lowering the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Regular scaling and polishing help keep your mouth healthy, which can positively impact your overall well-being.

Feature

Number of implants needed

Implant placement

Implant angulation

Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning

Treatment timeline

Traditional Implants

Requires one implant for each missing tooth

Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing

Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone

High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity

Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed

All-on-4 Implants

Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth

Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density

Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees

Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures

You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Overall cost of treatment is reduced

Stable implants and artificial teeth

Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently

Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient

Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery

Feature

Number of implants needed

Implant placement

Implant angulation

Need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures like sinus lift and nerve repositioning

Treatment timeline

Traditional Implants

Requires one implant for each missing tooth

Implants have to be placed where the individual tooth is missing

Align with adjacent teeth and supporting bone

High probability, especially if sufficient bone is not present to support the implant, or vital structures like nerves and sinus membrane are in close proximity

Have to wait for a healing period of 3-6 months before artificial teeth can be placed

All-on-4 Implants

Requires 4 implants to replace an entire jaw of missing teeth

Implants are strategically placed in areas of jawbone with the highest bone density

Two implants at the back are placed at 30-45 degrees

Less probability of requiring adjunct surgical procedures

You receive your temporary artificial teeth immediately after placement of the implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Overall cost of treatment is reduced

Stable implants and artificial teeth

Stress from daily activities such as chewing and swallowing is distributed efficiently

Overall cost of treatment is reduced, less recovery time and less stress for patient

Patient receive their new teeth on the same day as surgery

How Often Should You Get Scaling and Polishing?

It’s generally recommended to have scaling and polishing done approximately every 6 months as part of routine dental maintenance to keep your gums healthy.

However, some people may need more frequent cleanings. For example, those with gums that are not in a healthy state may require an intensive cleaning schedule every 3 to 4 months. These visits often involve deeper cleaning scaling and polishing procedure, such as root planing to remove bacteria from below the gum line. Once the gums have regained health, you can return to a regular 6-month cleaning schedule.

Book Your Routine Scaling and Polishing Appointment

Enjoy a Soothing Clean with Guided Biofilm Therapy

The whistling sound of ultrasonic scalers might not be pleasant for everyone. Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) offers a quieter, more comfortable alternative by using air, water, and fine powder particles to gently remove plaque and stains.

A disclosing dye is first applied to highlight plaque buildup, ensuring an accurate and thorough clean. This method is especially effective for hard-to-reach areas, such as around braces or dental restorations. GBT can also be a gentler option for those with sensitive teeth, providing an effective clean with less discomfort.

Learn about GBT

Process of Getting Scaling and Polishing At Dental Designs in Singapore

1. Assessment

Our dental professional will assess your oral health, which includes examining the teeth and gums for signs of biofilm, tartar and staining. This assessment helps determine the extent of cleaning needed and identifies areas of concern.

2. Scaling (Removal of Plaque and Tartar)

Ultrasonic Scaling: The dentist or hygienist will use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. An ultrasonic scaler emits high-frequency vibrations that break down plaque and tartar, making it easier to remove.

Manual Scaling: Hand scalers or curettes may be used to remove tartar from hard-to-reach areas, such as the inner surfaces between your lower front teeth.

3. Polishing

Polishing can be performed using either a polishing paste or a ProphyJet.

Polishing Paste: After scaling, polishing is done to smoothen the tooth surfaces, making it more difficult for plaque to accumulate. The polishing paste is applied using a rotating rubber cup or a soft brush, which is gently moved around each tooth to buff and polish the surfaces.

ProphyJet Stain Removal: The ProphyJet is a high-pressure air polishing system used to remove stubborn surface stains more effectively. It’s especially useful for patients with visible staining or those who regularly consume stain-causing substances such as tea or coffee.

4. Flossing and Rinsing

Flossing: After polishing, the hygienist or dentist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining particles and ensure that your gums are clean.

Rinsing: A mouthwash may be offered to help reduce bacteria and promote healthy gums.

5. Fluoride Application

Fluoride gel or varnish is often applied as an extra step to strengthen and protect your freshly cleaned teeth.

Fluoride treatment is typically recommended for patients who are at a higher risk of tooth decay or for those who want an additional layer of protection. This final step ensures your teeth remain healthy and strong, extending the benefits of your scaling and polishing treatment.

6. Schedule Your Next Visit

Scaling and polishing are essential parts of your regular dental care routine and are typically recommended every 6 months to maintain optimal oral health. However, the frequency of your visits may vary depending on your individual needs.

If you have specific oral health concerns, such as gum disease, excessive plaque buildup, or a tendency to develop cavities, you may be advised to schedule more frequent scaling and polishing visits.

Cost of Scaling and Polishing in Singapore

The cost for teeth cleaning can vary significantly and is determined by the individualised treatment plan created by the dentist for each patient. Regular scaling and polishing are essential for maintaining oral health, as they help remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains that brushing alone cannot eliminate. This prevents gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, reducing the need for more costly dental treatments in the future.

The cost of standard scaling and polishing at Dental Designs Clinic starts at $119.90, inclusive of 9% GST. Teeth scaling and polishing prices may be higher if additional treatments, such as fluoride application or deep cleaning for gum disease, are needed. Investing in routine cleanings not only keeps your teeth and gums healthy but also allows for early detection of potential oral health issues before they become more serious.

Starts From

$119.90*

Scaling and Polishing	$119.90 – $239.80
Scaling & Polishing with EMS Airflow	$239.80 – $263.78
Prophy Jet Stains Removal	$70.85 – $78.48
Fluoride Gel Application	$31.61 – $78.48
High Strength Fluoride Treatment (Duraphat)	$59.95 – $66.49
Deep Cleaning/Root Planing (Per Tooth)	From $59.95
Deep Cleaning/Root Planing (Per Quadrant)	From $436
Local Anaesthesia	$31.61 – $34.88

*Price are inclusive of 9% GST

**As treatment is customised, your dentist will be able to advise the treatment costs during the consultation.

Creating Smiles, Changing Lives

Over 28 reviews

The service and doctor is the best in town! The customer service and receptionists are very friendly! Dr Phillip Miller and Dr Noah Teo is very nice and very professional on their skill! They also very patient to explain to me about the treatment!

Will come back again!

Thank you very much!

李岳侨

Beautiful and friendly dental clinic, was recommended by my colleague. Been coming here for dental cleaning and fillings. Always a good visit!

J. Kho

This dental clinic has very good staff who are well trained and friendly. The dentists are also very good and will explain the treatment in detail before starting treatment. The equipment is very high tech and I believe they are able to do high quality work as I did my crown here and it looks much better than my colleague who also recently did his at another place. The waiting room is also very comfortable. good job!

C. Zheng De

This clinic is one of the best I have ever seen. I saw dr Justin for my implant which I did many years ago, the tooth was loose, and other drs told me to remove it as they could not find out what brand it was but dr Justin was able to take 3d xrays and locate the brand and specially ordered the part in. he saved me from having to do a surgery to remove and put a new implant which would have cost me a bomb. the tooth looks even better than the original thanks to the experieced dental technician Katsuya from Japan.

Very happy and will keep coming back for my regular dental.

G. Hock An

my workplace is close by and I had a problem with my tooth for a few days, so I made an appointment to come down. The receptionist who booked my appointment was very helpful and friendly to explain the way to the clinic from my office. I saw Dr Nicholas who was able to do a root canal treatment on the same visit so that I didn't need to come back. I felt safe and comfortable to do my dental treatment here as the dental picks are all wrapped up and sterilized and only opened before each treatment when im inside.

P. Wendy

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Will come back again!

Thank you very much!

李岳侨

Beautiful and friendly dental clinic, was recommended by my colleague. Been coming here for dental cleaning and fillings. Always a good visit!

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Scaling and Polishing

What is Scaling and Polishing?

What is Dental Plaque?

What is Tartar/Calculus?

Keep Plaque and Tartar in Check

What Does Scaling and Polishing Do?

Scaling

Deep Cleaning

Polishing

What is ProphyJet Stain Removal?

Strengthens Enamel

Remineralises Weak Spots

Prevents Cavities

Reduces Sensitivity

Relieves Discomfort Caused By Receding Gums

Promotes Oral Health

What is Fluoride Application?

Feature

Traditional Implants

All-on-4 Implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Feature

Traditional Implants

All-on-4 Implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Feature

Traditional Implants

All-on-4 Implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Feature

Traditional Implants

All-on-4 Implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Feature

Toothpaste

Fluoride Gel

Fluoride Varnish

Feature

Toothpaste

Fluoride Gel

Fluoride Varnish

What Are The Benefits Of Scaling And Polishing?

Prevents Gum Disease

Prevents Tooth Decay (Cavities)

Fresher Breath

Brighter Smile

Identifies Dental Problems Early

Promotes Overall Health

Feature

Traditional Implants

All-on-4 Implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Feature

Traditional Implants

All-on-4 Implants

What It Means If You Choose All-on-4

Curious About Root Canal Treatment in Singapore?

How Often Should You Get Scaling and Polishing?

Enjoy a Soothing Clean with Guided Biofilm Therapy

Process of Getting Scaling and Polishing At Dental Designs in Singapore

1. Assessment

2. Scaling (Removal of Plaque and Tartar)

3. Polishing

4. Flossing and Rinsing

5. Fluoride Application

6. Schedule Your Next Visit

Cost of Scaling and Polishing in Singapore

Starts From

$119.90*

Creating Smiles, Changing Lives

李岳侨

J. Kho

C. Zheng De

G. Hock An

P. Wendy

Hear From Our Happy Patients

李岳侨

J. Kho

C. Zheng De