A dental scaler is an instrument used by oral health professionals to perform a fundamental part of a professional cleaning. This tool is designed to remove tenacious deposits from the surfaces of the teeth both above and below the gum line. Scaling is a necessary procedure to maintain the health of the teeth and supporting gum structures, which cannot be achieved with daily brushing and flossing alone. Regular professional cleanings are a standard component of preventive oral care.
Primary Use Removing Plaque and Calculus
The primary purpose of a dental scaler is the mechanical removal of dental plaque and calculus, the main biological threats to gum and bone health. Plaque is a soft, sticky biofilm composed of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed through daily oral hygiene, it absorbs minerals, primarily calcium and phosphate, from saliva.
This mineral absorption causes the soft plaque to harden into a rough, porous deposit known as calculus, or tartar. Calculus is typically yellowish or brown and attaches firmly to the tooth surface, often concentrating near the gum line. Once mineralized, calculus is too hard to be removed by a toothbrush or floss.
The rough surface of calculus creates an ideal environment for more plaque to accumulate, leading to chronic irritation and inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). If left untreated, this irritation can progress to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease characterized by the gums pulling away from the tooth and the creation of pockets. The dental scaler is engineered to scrape and dislodge this hardened calculus from the tooth enamel and root surfaces, stopping the progression of gum disease.
Types of Scaling Tools Used
Dental professionals utilize two main categories of instruments for scaling: manual (hand) scalers and powered scalers. Manual instruments rely on the hygienist’s skill to physically scrape deposits from the tooth surface. Hand scalers, such as sickle scalers, have sharp, pointed tips and are primarily used to remove calculus located above the gum line (supragingival calculus).
Curettes are another type of manual scaler designed with a rounded toe and a longer shank. This design makes them suitable for reaching below the gum line for subgingival scaling and root planing. Specialized curettes, such as Gracey curettes, feature offset blades designed to adapt precisely to specific tooth surfaces.
Powered tools, including sonic and ultrasonic scalers, remove calculus using high-frequency vibrations. Ultrasonic scalers operate at extremely high frequencies, creating rapid micro-vibrations that fracture the hardened calculus deposits. These devices simultaneously emit a fine mist of water to cool the tip and flush away dislodged debris and bacteria. Sonic scalers operate at a lower frequency, typically between 3,000 and 8,000 cycles per second, and are powered by air from the dental unit.
What to Expect During a Scaling Procedure
The scaling appointment begins with the dental professional examining the mouth to determine the extent and location of the calculus buildup. During the cleaning process, patients commonly feel pressure and scraping as the manual tools are guided along the tooth surfaces. The powered ultrasonic scaler produces a distinct high-pitched humming or buzzing sound, accompanied by a continuous flow of cool water used for irrigation.
Sensations vary depending on the amount of calculus present and the health of the gums. If the gums are inflamed or if significant buildup exists beneath the gum line, the patient may experience some discomfort or tenderness.
For patients requiring a deeper cleaning, often referred to as scaling and root planing, local anesthesia may be administered. This deeper cleaning is necessary when periodontal pockets have formed and is more intensive than a routine cleaning. Anesthesia ensures the hygienist can thoroughly clean the root surfaces and minimize patient pain. Following the procedure, it is common to experience mild sensitivity or tenderness for a few days, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.