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Dentistry vocabulary · Gums and Oral Hygiene

Scaling

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

/ˈskeɪlɪŋ/nounCore term

In dentistry, scaling means: Professional removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth, above and below the gum line, using ultrasonic and hand instruments.

In Turkish: diş taşı temizliği, detertraj

How it is used

British patients ask for a scale and polish; Americans call it a cleaning, and insurers call it prophylaxis. Deeper cleaning of root surfaces in periodontitis is scaling and root planing (SRP). The verb is scale.

Example sentences

  1. You're due for scaling and polishing, so I'll book you in with the hygienist.

  2. After scaling, the bleeding from her gums had reduced a lot.

Common collocations

  • scale and polish
  • scaling and root planing
  • ultrasonic scaling
  • deep scaling
  • tartarHard, yellow or brown deposits that form when plaque hardens on the teeth. A toothbrush cannot remove it, so it needs professional cleaning.
  • plaqueA soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth every day. If brushing and cleaning between the teeth do not remove it, it leads to decay and gum disease.
  • dental hygienistA registered dental professional who cleans teeth, removes tartar and gives prevention advice and, in many countries, also takes X-rays and treats gum disease.
  • periodontitisA serious gum disease in which infection destroys the bone and tissues that hold the teeth. Pockets form, teeth may loosen, and lost bone does not grow back by itself.
  • gingivitisInflammation of the gums, usually caused by plaque. The gums look red and swollen and bleed easily, but good cleaning can reverse it.

More terms: Gums and Oral Hygiene

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.