Scale and Polish
A Brighter, Fresher Smile Starts Here
A bright, fresh smile begins with clean, healthy teeth. Over time, even with careful brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can accumulate in areas your toothbrush cannot reach. This is where a scale and polish make all the difference. At Toothworx Dentistry, led by Dr Zizikazi Bidla, our scale and polish treatments in Fourways, Soweto, Secunda and Roodepoort help you maintain strong teeth, healthy gums, and long-lasting freshness.
What Exactly Is a Scale and Polish?
A scale and polish is a professional dental cleaning that removes stubborn deposits from your teeth. These deposits include plaque, a soft film of bacteria, and tartar, which forms when plaque hardens and bonds to the tooth surface.
The process is gentle and straightforward:
- Scaling: Special instruments are used to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
- Polishing: Once clean, the teeth are polished to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel, making it harder for new plaque to accumulate.
This combination enhances the appearance of your teeth and promotes long-term gum health.
Why Is Scaling and Polishing Important?
Plaque and tartar may seem minor, but they can lead to gum inflammation, bad breath, and tooth decay if left untreated. A professional scale and polish is one of the most effective ways to prevent these problems and maintain a healthy smile.
Regular scaling and polishing helps to:
- Prevent gum disease and bleeding gums.
- Reduce surface staining from tea, coffee, or tobacco.
- Leave your teeth feeling smoother and cleaner.
- Support fresher breath and overall mouth hygiene.
It is a small investment of time that helps prevent more complex dental issues in the future.
How Often Should I Book a Scale and Polish?
For most people, every six months is an ideal interval. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you:
- Smoke or use tobacco products.
- Have braces or retainers.
- Are prone to gum disease or heavy plaque buildup.
- Have medical conditions such as diabetes.
A consistent cleaning routine ensures your teeth and gums remain in excellent condition.
What Can I Expect During My Appointment?
A scale and polish is simple, gentle, and usually completed within a single visit. You can expect:
- A brief oral examination to assess your teeth and gums.
- Gentle removal of plaque and tartar using ultrasonic or manual tools.
- Polishing with a fine, mildly abrasive paste.
- Personalised guidance on brushing, flossing, and home care.
You will leave feeling refreshed, confident, and clean.
How Can I Maintain the Results at Home?
Your daily routine is key to keeping your smile clean and healthy between visits. To maintain results:
- Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss or use interdental brushes daily.
- Rinse with water after meals.
- Limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks.
- Replace your toothbrush every three months.
Good habits paired with professional care keep your smile bright for the long term.
Where Can I Book a Scale and Polish?
Toothworx Dentistry provides professional scale and polish treatments in Fourways, Soweto, Secunda and Roodepoort. Whether you are due for a routine cleaning or simply want to refresh your smile, this quick, effective procedure makes a noticeable difference.
Healthy teeth begin with regular care. Book your scale and polish at any of our locations today and give your smile the attention it deserves.