Dental Encyclopedia · Periodontics
Scaling (Calculus Removal)
Scaling
Scaling (calculus removal) is a procedure in which plaque and calculus built up on the tooth surface and at the gum margin are removed with professional instruments. It is known as the basic procedure for preventing and managing periodontal disease.
In plain terms
Put simply, it is removing the hardened “calculus” that brushing cannot take off, using instruments. You can think of it as the basic cleaning for gum health.
Calculus, formed when plaque hardens, is not removed by brushing, so professional scaling is needed. Leaving calculus in place is known to allow the bacteria within it to cause gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
For those aged 19 and over, Korea’s National Health Insurance covers scaling once a year (on a January-to-December calendar-year basis). After the procedure the teeth may feel temporarily sensitive, or the spaces between the gums may look wider, but this is known to appear in many cases as the swelling subsides.
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
- Q. My teeth feel sensitive and the gaps look wider after scaling — is that all right?
- Temporary sensitivity after scaling, or the spaces between the gums appearing wider, is known to appear in many cases as the parts that had been hidden by calculus are exposed and the swollen gums settle down. It usually settles with time, and if the symptoms persist it is advisable to have them checked at a consultation.
This entry is for general information. Diagnosis and treatment depend on individual conditions.