Scaling: Myths and Realities

Scaling or Oral prophylaxis is a Dental procedure through which plaque, stains and calculus are removed from the tooth surface. It keeps your teeth firm and your gums healthy. Historically, professional tooth cleaning was sometimes referred to as odontexesis, literally meaning tooth-scraping. Dentists recommend that after every six months scaling should be done. The treatment is neither expensive nor lengthy or complex. Though the procedure is safe, harmless and without any serious risks or side-effects yet a number of myths are attached to it and most of the people do not prefer oral prophylaxis due to these myths. In this piece I will try to address some of the common myths associated with scaling and their realities.

Scaling widens the space between teeth?

The most common myth is that scaling increases the gaps between the teeth. However there is no such thing in reality. The usual gaps called diastema present between the teeth gets filled with hard deposits, which after removal by scaling gives an effect of an increased gap.

Scaling removes the enamel layer of teeth?

Enamel is the strongest substance of your body. It is even stronger than a bone. On Mohs Hardness Scale, while platinum has a strength degree of 3.5, iron has 4 and ordinary steel has 4.5, the same scale gives Enamel a strength degree of 5. Thus stronger than iron and ordinary steel. So  a machine that just vibrates is not enough to break the layer of enamel.

Scaling makes the teeth sensitive?

Teeth become sensitive when either dentin or cementum gets exposed. Often calculus deposited along the gingival line recedes your gum line hence exposing the root surface. While it is covered by the calculus, you won’t feel any sensitivity. But when calculus is removed by scaling, you experience some sensitivity to hot and cold, which is transient and not permanent.

Scaling is painful?

Scaling is not painful at all. Neither the dentist will give you local anesthesia nor do you require to have some medications prior to the treatment. During the early 2000’s the procedure was being done with hand instruments but nowadays almost everywhere electric scalers are being used for the procedure thus making it a very comfortable and easy procedure. Although you will feel a mild scraping sensation on the teeth during the procedure.

Scaling is expensive?

Scaling is not an expensive or unaffordable treatment, rather it is very much affordable. Though the charges in New York vary from $50 to $100 and in London from £70 – £100, the same treatment in New Delhi costs 750 to 2500 and in Kashmir 500 – 2000.

Scaling causes Gum-bleeding?

During the removal of hard deposits from the tooth surface and gingival line, you may notice a very small amount of bleeding. However it is normal and nothing to worry about. The inflamed gums experience a little bleeding but that is normal.

If you have any doubts regarding Scaling, prefer to consult a Dental professional rather than asking any other person.