What Is Dental Scaling?
Dental scaling, also known as tartar removal, is one of the most basic dental services, yet it plays an important role in preventing gum disease and maintaining long-term oral health.
Here is what you need to know before undergoing the procedure.
1. What Is Tartar and Why Does It Form?
After eating and drinking, a thin film containing bacteria and food debris (plaque) forms on the surface of the teeth.
If it is not properly removed, plaque combines with minerals in saliva and gradually hardens into tartar — also known as dental calculus.
Unlike soft plaque, which can be removed with regular brushing, tartar adheres firmly to the tooth surface and cannot be effectively removed by brushing or flossing at home.
This is why professional dental instruments are needed to remove hardened tartar.
Common Areas Where Tartar Forms
Tartar tends to accumulate most heavily in areas where saliva is secreted in greater amounts, particularly behind the lower front teeth and on the outer surfaces of the upper molars.
In addition to the tartar visible above the gumline, tartar can also develop below the gumline, where it may be more difficult to detect without a professional dental examination.
2. What Happens If Tartar Is Not Removed?
Tartar can affect more than the appearance of your teeth. If left untreated for an extended period, it can contribute to gum disease and other periodontal problems.
2.1 Gingivitis and Periodontitis
Bacteria within tartar continuously irritate the gum tissue, causing inflammation, redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which affects the tissues supporting the teeth and, in some cases, can contribute to tooth mobility.
2.2 Bad Breath and Tooth Sensitivity
Bacteria accumulated in tartar are one of the common causes of persistent bad breath. Hen tartar extends below the gumline, part of the tooth root may become exposed, making the teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, or acidic foods and drinks.
2.3 Long-Term Effects on Teeth and Supporting Bone
If tartar-related periodontal inflammation remains uncontrolled over time, the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth may gradually become damaged.
This is why regular dental scaling is considered an important preventive measure, rather than simply a cosmetic treatment.
3. When Should You Have Your Teeth Scaled?
Recommended Frequency
According to common dental recommendations, professional dental scaling is generally recommended about every 6 months.
However, the appropriate frequency varies depending on each person’s rate of tartar formation, gum health, and oral hygiene habits.
At Viet Nga Dental Clinic, our dentists will assess your oral health and recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule based on your individual needs.
Signs You May Need Dental Scaling Sooner
Some signs that may indicate you should have your teeth professionally cleaned sooner include:
- Swollen or red gums that bleed easily when brushing
- Persistent bad breath despite maintaining regular oral hygiene
- Visible or detectable hard yellow or brown deposits on the teeth
- Unusual tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking
4. Does Dental Scaling Hurt?
This is one of the most common concerns that causes people to postpone professional tartar removal.
In general, dental scaling performed with proper technique should not cause significant pain. Some people may experience mild sensitivity or temporary discomfort, particularly when:
- A large amount of tartar has accumulated
- The gums are inflamed or sensitive
- The teeth were already sensitive before treatment
This discomfort usually subsides quickly after the procedure and does not persist. If you have sensitive teeth, let your dentist know beforehand so they can advise you on ways to minimize sensitivity during treatment.
5. What Does the Dental Scaling Process Involve?
Professional dental scaling generally involves the following basic steps:
- Dental examination and oral health assessment — The dentist evaluates the amount of tartar and the condition of your gums to determine the appropriate treatment level.
- Professional tartar removal — Specialized instruments are used to remove tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline.
- Tooth polishing — The tooth surfaces are polished to make them smoother and help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar.
- Post-treatment oral care guidance — Your dentist provides recommendations on oral hygiene and an appropriate follow-up schedule.
6. What Should You Keep in Mind After Dental Scaling?
Temporary Tooth Sensitivity
Some people may experience increased tooth sensitivity during the first few days after scaling, especially when there is significant tartar buildup or gum inflammation. This sensation usually decreases gradually over time.
Oral Care After Scaling
To maintain the benefits of professional cleaning, you should:
- Brush your teeth regularly at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Use dental floss or a water flosser to clean between your teeth
- Limit foods and drinks that are likely to cause staining or rapid plaque buildup
- Attend regular dental check-ups according to your dentist’s recommendations
7. Dental Scaling Cost at Viet Nga Dental Clinic
The cost of dental scaling is based on the tartar level, which is determined by the dentist during an in-person examination:
| Service | Unit | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 Dental Scaling | Visit | 200,000 VND |
| Level 2 Dental Scaling | Visit | 300,000 VND |
| Level 3 Dental Scaling | Visit | 400,000 VND |
Tartar level (mild, moderate, or severe) is determined by the dentist during the examination based on the amount of tartar present and the individual’s actual gum condition.
This is why the cost may vary between patients, even when they receive the same service.
The above pricing applies at the time of publication and may be updated by Việt Nga from time to time. Please contact us directly to confirm the current pricing.
8. Why Choose Viet Nga for Regular Dental Scaling?
Việt Nga focuses on assessing each patient’s oral health before treatment to accurately determine the tartar level and recommend an appropriate care schedule, rather than applying the same procedure to every patient.
Our dentists will conduct an in-person examination to recommend the appropriate treatment and provide personalized care guidance based on the condition of your teeth and gums.
Book a consultation and dental scaling appointment at:
Clinic 01 — 113 Nguyen Van Troi Street, Vung Tau Ward — Hotline: 0941 320 111
Clinic 02 — Chí Linh DIC Urban Area, D1 Nguyen Huu Canh Street (opposite Seaview 1) — Hotline: 0857 168 279
[Book a Consultation] · [Contact Viet Nga for a Personalized Dental Assessment]
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Does dental scaling weaken the teeth?
Professional dental scaling performed correctly does not weaken the teeth or damage the enamel.
On the contrary, regular tartar removal can help reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontal problems — conditions that can contribute to tooth mobility when left untreated for an extended period.
2. How often should I have my teeth scaled?
For most people, professional dental scaling is generally recommended every 6 months. However, the appropriate frequency depends on each person’s rate of tartar formation and gum condition.
Your dentist will recommend a suitable schedule after an examination.
3. Does dental scaling whiten teeth?
Dental scaling removes plaque and tartar, which can make your teeth look cleaner and brighter than before. However, it is not a teeth-whitening treatment.
If you would like to improve the color of your teeth, discuss suitable whitening options with your dentist.
4. Do children need dental scaling?
Children can also develop tartar, although it is less common than in adults.
Regular dental check-ups can help identify tartar buildup early and determine an appropriate approach for primary or developing permanent teeth.