Dental calculus (tartar) forms when plaque hardens under the influence of salivary minerals and provides a surface that sustains gum inflammation (Hinrichs & Thumbigere-Math, 2019). The rate of calculus buildup varies from person to person (Anerud et al., 1991).

Why does it need to be cleaned?

Calculus cannot be removed by brushing at home; accumulated calculus can be associated with gum bleeding, bad breath and, in advanced cases, bone loss (Albandar et al., 1998). For this reason, professional cleaning is recommended periodically.

How is cleaning done?

• Examination and gum evaluation
• Calculus removal with ultrasonic and/or hand instruments
• Root surface cleaning if needed
• Polishing and home-care education

What determines the cleaning fee?

Procedure time, the amount of buildup and gum condition change the scope; clear information is given after the examination.

See our professional teeth cleaning and scaling page for service details.

How does calculus form?

Plaque combines with minerals in saliva and hardens within days into calculus that adheres to the tooth surface. The rate of formation varies from person to person according to saliva composition and oral care (Anerud et al., 1991). Because the calculus surface is rough, it facilitates new plaque buildup, creating a cycle that sustains gum inflammation (Hinrichs & Thumbigere-Math, 2019).

Difference between scaling and deep cleaning

Cleaning calculus above the gum line is called professional teeth cleaning (scaling). If calculus has progressed into the gum pocket and the pocket has deepened, deep cleaning (root surface cleaning) may be needed. Which one will be applied is decided by periodontal examination; see deep gum cleaning (SRP) for details.

What to expect after cleaning

• Mild sensitivity or gum tenderness may be seen for a few days.
• Gums that previously bled are expected to bleed less over time.
• Spaces between teeth that were previously filled may become noticeable; this is because swelling goes down as inflammation recedes.

What determines the cleaning interval?

The interval is not the same for everyone. Factors such as history of gum disease, smoking, oral hygiene and the rate of calculus formation are decisive. In people who have had periodontitis, maintenance sessions are generally planned more frequently. In the study by Albandar and colleagues, gum inflammation and subgingival calculus were reported to be associated with disease progression (Albandar et al., 1998), which emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups.

Frequently asked questions

Does scaling wear down teeth?

When done with correct technique it does not harm the tooth; sensitivity can be temporary.

How often should I have it done?

The interval is determined by the dentist according to your gum condition.

Is bleeding after cleaning normal?

Mild bleeding can occur in inflamed gums; tell your dentist if it lasts.

Does scaling open spaces between teeth?

Teeth do not shift; once calculus and swelling are removed, existing spaces become visible.

Can calculus be cleaned at home?

Hardened calculus cannot be removed at home; wrong instruments can harm teeth and gums.

Is scaling done during pregnancy?

Tell your dentist about the situation; gum health matters in pregnancy and suitable timing is planned with the dentist.

For your gum health you can book an appointment or browse the other articles in our Dental Health section. You can reach us from Bahçelievler, Bakırköy, Güngören, Haznedar, İlkyuva and Basınsitesi.

References

• Anerud, A., Löe, H., & Boysen, H. (1991). The natural history and clinical course of calculus formation in man. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 18(3), 160–170. PubMed ↗
• Albandar, J. M., Kingman, A., Brown, L. J., & Löe, H. (1998). Gingival inflammation and subgingival calculus as determinants of disease progression in early-onset periodontitis. Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 25(3), 231–237. PubMed ↗
• Hinrichs, J. E., & Thumbigere-Math, V. (2019). The role of dental calculus and other local predisposing factors (Chapter 13). In M. G. Newman, H. H. Takei, P. R. Klokkevold, & F. A. Carranza (Eds.), Newman and Carranza’s clinical periodontology (13th ed., pp. 190–207). Elsevier.

Note: Book chapter references follow the page ranges of the publisher’s edition; article links open the matching PubMed record.

This article is for information only and is not medical advice. See your dentist for diagnosis and treatment; no outcome is guaranteed.

This page was reviewed by Dr. Dt. Mehmet Fuat Bozaba, periodontist.