Scaling & Polishing: Gum Health, Procedures & CHAS Dental Subsidies.

1. Plaque vs. Calculus

Every day, a soft, sticky film of bacteria called dental plaque forms on our teeth. Plaque is caused by bacteria feeding on sugars in our food, producing acids that attack tooth enamel. While plaque is easily removed with thorough daily brushing and flossing, any remaining plaque will absorb minerals from saliva and harden into calculus (also known as tartar) within 24 to 72 hours.

Calculus has a rough, porous surface that provides an ideal breeding ground for more bacterial plaque. Unlike plaque, calculus is strongly bonded to the tooth surface and cannot be brushed away at home. It requires professional removal by a dentist or dental hygienist using specialized scaling instruments.

2. Clinical Prophylaxis Process

A standard dental prophylaxis appointment consists of two primary clinical steps:

• Scaling: The dentist uses an ultrasonic scaler, which vibrates at high frequencies to shatter and loosen large deposits of calculus. Water spray is used to wash away the fragments and keep the tooth cool. Hand instruments (scalars and curettes) are then used to manually scrape away any remaining fine deposits, particularly below the gum line (subgingival scaling).
• Polishing: Once the teeth are free of calculus, the polishing phase begins. The dentist uses a rubber cup attachment filled with a gritty prophylaxis paste (pumice) to buff the tooth enamel, removing superficial stains caused by coffee, tea, or smoking. This leaves the tooth surface smooth, making it harder for new plaque to attach.

3. Prevention of Periodontitis

Leaving calculus untreated on the teeth leads to progressive gum disease. In the initial stage, called gingivitis, the toxins produced by bacteria cause the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily during brushing. Gingivitis is fully reversible with professional scaling and good oral hygiene.

If gingivitis is ignored, it can advance to periodontitis. The bacteria migrate deeper below the gum line, destroying the periodontal ligament and alveolar jawbone that support the teeth. Gums pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets that trap more bacteria. Over time, teeth lose their structural support, become loose, and eventually fall out or require extraction. Regular scaling prevents this destructive process.

4. Recommended Frequency

For patients with healthy gums and low plaque accumulation, dental professionals recommend a scaling and polishing visit once every 6 months.

However, individuals who have a history of periodontitis, high calculus formation rates, or systemic conditions like diabetes may require maintenance visits every 3 to 4 months. These more frequent cleanings ensure that bacterial loads subgingivally are managed before they can trigger bone loss.

5. CHAS Orange & Blue Subsidies

Under the Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines, scaling and polishing is one of the 18 basic dental procedures subsidized under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) to promote preventive healthcare.

These subsidies are available at all CHAS-accredited private dental clinics in Singapore. Patients must present their physical or digital NRIC and CHAS card during registration to claim their benefits.

6. Private Fees & Medisave Policy

Private dental fees in Singapore reflect the operating overheads of individual practices.

Because scaling is a non-surgical, preventive outpatient treatment, it is not eligible for Medisave claims. All remaining fees after CHAS subsidies must be paid in cash or nets.

To understand how CHAS and Medisave apply to other restorative procedures, view our comprehensive Singapore Dental Subsidy Guide.

Disclaimer: Prices are indicative ranges. Consult your dentist for exact fees.