Scaling is an essential dental procedure aimed at maintaining optimal oral health, especially for children. At Dentistry Junior, we understand the significance of this treatment in ensuring your child’s teeth and gums remain healthy and free from potential issues.

What is Scaling?

Scaling is a routine dental cleaning procedure that involves the careful removal of plaque, tartar, and bacterial buildup from the surfaces of teeth, particularly around the gum line and between teeth. Plaque is a sticky film made up of bacteria, food debris, and saliva that builds up on teeth. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar that sticks firmly to teeth.

Why is Scaling Important for Children?

Routine scaling is crucial for children because plaque and tartar cause tooth decay and periodontal disease. Children are at high risk for these oral health issues due to their developing teeth, changing dietary needs, and difficulty in brushing or flossing effectively.


Scaling helps in:

  • Preventing Gum Diseases: By removing tartar and plaque, scaling reduces the risk of gum inflammation, bleeding, and infections in children.
  • Maintaining Oral Health: It ensures that children’s teeth and gums stay healthy, promoting a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits.
  • Preventing Bad Breath: Eliminating bacteria and plaque buildup helps in combating bad breath.

When Should Scaling be Done?

Paediatric dentists recommend children receive a professional dental cleaning and scaling every 6 months starting around age 3-4. More frequent scaling may be needed for children at high risk for cavities or gum disease. The dental team will assess your child’s oral health risk factors and needs at their regular checkup visits.

The Scaling Process at Dentistry Junior

Our paediatric dental specialists at Dentistry Junior prioritise your child’s comfort and well-being throughout the scaling procedure. Here’s what to expect:

  • Examination: Our dentist will first examine your child’s oral health, identifying areas that require scaling.
  • Scaling: Using specialised tools, the dentist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum line.
  • Polishing: After scaling, the teeth will be polished to remove any residual stains and create a smooth surface.
  • Education and Tips: We’ll provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene at home, including brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your child’s needs.

Post-Scaling Care

Following scaling, it’s essential to maintain regular dental check-ups and adhere to a consistent oral hygiene routine. Encouraging your child to brush twice daily, floss regularly, and limit sugary snacks helps in preventing plaque buildup.

At Dentistry Junior, we believe that early and regular dental care, including scaling, is vital for a child’s overall health. Our compassionate team ensures a comfortable and effective scaling experience, promoting healthy smiles for your little ones.

Schedule an appointment today to prioritize your child’s dental health and well-being!

FAQs

Scaling may be recommended for children as young as 4 years old, depending on their oral health needs. Your dentist can determine the right time during routine check-ups

Signs include persistent bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, visible tartar buildup, or changes in the colour of teeth near the gum line.

Scaling is typically painless. However, some children may experience slight discomfort or sensitivity. Our team takes special care to ensure a comfortable experience for your child.

Yes, scaling can often be performed during a routine dental check-up, especially if the dentist identifies the need for it based on the examination.

The duration varies based on the extent of plaque and tartar buildup. Generally, it can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.