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Scale and polish
A scale and polish is a professional dental cleaning treatment designed to remove plaque, tartar, and surface staining from the teeth. It plays an important role in maintaining healthy gums, preventing dental disease, and keeping teeth feeling clean and smooth.
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At Harley Private Dental, scale and polish treatments are carried out with care and precision, tailored to your individual oral health needs.
What is a scale and polish?
A scale and polish involves two main stages:
- Scaling – the removal of plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from the teeth and around the gum line
- Polishing – smoothing the tooth surfaces to remove surface stains and help reduce future plaque build-up
This cleaning cannot be achieved through brushing alone and is an essential part of professional dental care.
After a scale and polish, many patients notice cleaner, smoother teeth, fresher breath, improved gum comfort and a brighter appearance due to stain removal.
Why is a scale and polish important?
Plaque and tartar build-up can contribute to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Regular scale and polish appointments help to:
- Maintain healthy gums
- Reduce the risk of gum disease
- Improve breath freshness
- Support long-term oral health
- Keep teeth looking clean and polished
It also supports the success of other dental treatments by maintaining a healthy foundation.
Who is suitable for a scale and polish?
Scale and polish treatments are suitable for most patients and are recommended as part of routine dental care. They may be particularly beneficial if you:
- Experience bleeding gums
- Have a build-up of tartar
- Notice surface staining from food, drink, or smoking
- Want to maintain healthy teeth and gums
Your dentist or hygienist will advise how often a scale and polish is recommended for you.
What does the treatment involve?
A scale and polish appointment typically includes:
- Assessment of oral health
The teeth and gums are checked before cleaning begins. - Scaling
Professional instruments are used to gently remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gum margins. - Polishing
The teeth are polished to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth and clean.
The treatment is usually straightforward and completed in a single appointment.
What results can I expect?
After a scale and polish, many patients notice:
- Cleaner, smoother teeth
- Fresher breath
- Improved gum comfort
- A brighter appearance due to stain removal
Results depend on oral hygiene habits and regular maintenance.
Aftercare and ongoing care
After your scale and polish, you’ll receive advice on maintaining good oral hygiene at home. This may include brushing techniques, interdental cleaning, and recommendations on how often to attend future hygiene appointments.
Good home care combined with regular professional cleaning helps maintain long-term oral health.
Is a scale and polish right for me?
A scale and polish is a key part of preventative dental care and is suitable for most patients. A consultation allows us to assess your oral health and recommend an appropriate hygiene schedule tailored to your needs.
Personalised care starts here
A consultation gives us time to understand your needs, explain your options clearly, and plan care that’s right for you.
Spread the cost of your treatment
We offer finance options through Chrysalis Finance to help make treatment costs more manageable. This allows eligible patients to spread the cost of treatment over time with clear, structured repayments. Finance is available at a representative 14.9% APR, subject to status and approval.
Our finance calculator provides an indicative example of how treatment costs may be spread into monthly payments based on a 14.9% APR. Simply enter the estimated treatment cost and select a repayment term to view a guide price. Figures shown are for illustration only. Final repayment amounts will be confirmed following consultation and finance approval.
Using the calculator does not commit you to treatment or finance. It is designed to help you understand your options clearly, without pressure. Full details, including repayment terms and eligibility, will always be explained before you proceed.
Frequently asked questions
Practical guidance to help you understand our care, treatments, and what to expect.
How often should I have a scale and polish?
For many patients, a scale and polish is recommended every six months. Some patients may benefit from more frequent appointments depending on gum health.
Is a scale and polish painful?
Most patients find the treatment comfortable. Mild sensitivity may occur, especially if gums are inflamed, but this usually settles quickly.
Does a scale and polish whiten teeth?
A scale and polish removes surface staining and can make teeth appear brighter, but it does not change the natural colour of the teeth. Whitening treatments can be discussed separately.
Can I eat normally after a scale and polish?
Yes. You can usually eat and drink as normal after treatment. If specific advice is needed, your clinician will explain this during your appointment.
Our wonderful team
Our team includes experienced general dentists and clinicians with specialist skills. Together we deliver a wide range of treatments under one roof.
Our other treatments
Cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth while maintaining oral health and function. Treatments may include whitening, composite bonding, veneers, and aesthetic restorations designed to create natural-looking, balanced results.
General dentistry
General dentistry covers routine and preventative dental care, including examinations, hygiene appointments, fillings, crowns, and monitoring of oral health. The aim is to maintain healthy teeth and gums, identify issues early, and reduce the need for more complex treatment.