Hygiene Care

Scale and Polish

Professional removal of deposits such as calculus when this is needed for oral health.

What to expect

A dentist or hygienist uses hand instruments or powered scalers to remove deposits and may polish the teeth. Advice should address the home cleaning needed to control plaque.

A scale and polish is not automatically included at every NHS check-up.

It is available through the NHS when the dentist considers it clinically necessary.

Treatment for gum disease may require more than a routine cleaning visit.

Is scale and polish available on the NHS?

Clinically necessary scaling can be provided on the NHS. A cosmetic clean requested without clinical need is private.

Before agreeing to treatment

Ask which parts are NHS and which are private, what alternatives are available, and what you will pay. Your dentist should explain material risks and the expected aftercare.

Source: NHS guidance on available dental services. General information only; your dentist’s clinical advice takes priority.

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