Scaling removes hardened plaque — calculus — from your teeth and from just below the gumline, where a toothbrush cannot reach. Polishing smooths the surface afterwards so plaque takes longer to build back up. For most adults it is a single appointment of around thirty minutes, and it is the treatment most often called cuci gigi.
When this is usually needed
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss — gusi berdarah
- Yellow or brown deposits along the gumline
- Persistent bad breath that brushing does not fix
- Gums that look puffy or have started to pull away from the teeth
- It has been more than a year since your last clean
What happens, step by step
Examination
We check your teeth and gums first and tell you what we find before anything else happens.
Ultrasonic scaling
A fine vibrating tip breaks the hardened deposits away, with a water spray to keep the tooth cool.
Hand scaling
Deposits below the gumline that the ultrasonic tip cannot reach are removed by hand.
Polishing
A soft rotating cup with polishing paste smooths the surfaces so plaque re-forms more slowly.
What we found
We show you where you are missing when you brush, which is usually more useful than the clean itself.
Before any treatment
This treatment may not be suitable for every patient. Whether it is appropriate for you depends on an examination at the clinic. Before we begin, we will assess your teeth and gums, take an updated medical history, explain the available options, and obtain your consent. Nothing on this page is a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation for your individual case.
Aftercare
- Your teeth may feel sensitive to cold for a day or two. It settles.
- Gums that were inflamed may bleed slightly for a day while they heal.
- Brush twice daily with a soft brush and clean between your teeth once a day — that is what keeps the deposits from returning.
- Most adults need this every six to twelve months. We will tell you which applies to you rather than defaulting to six.
Common questions
Does scaling hurt?
For most people it is uncomfortable rather than painful, mainly from the vibration and the cold water. If your gums are inflamed it can be more tender, and local anaesthetic is available. Tell us if you are finding it difficult — we can stop at any point.
How much does scaling cost in Malaysia?
At this clinic the indicative fee is RM 80–150 depending on how much deposit has built up and whether cleaning below the gumline is needed. The final figure is confirmed after we examine you. Public dental clinics charge considerably less but usually have a waiting list.
Will scaling loosen or damage my teeth?
No. Where teeth feel looser afterwards, the hardened deposit had been splinting teeth that were already loose from gum disease. Removing it is what allows the gum to heal. Scaling does not remove enamel.
Will it whiten my teeth?
It removes surface staining from coffee, tea and smoking, so teeth often look noticeably cleaner. It does not change the natural colour of the tooth underneath — that is a different treatment.
How often should I have it done?
Six to twelve months suits most adults. People who smoke, who have gum disease, or who build up deposits quickly may need it more often. We will tell you what your mouth actually needs.
Related treatments
- Tooth filling — Tampal gigi
- Children's dentistry — Pergigian kanak-kanak
- Teeth whitening — Pemutihan gigi