Scaling & Polishing
in Singapore
Professional scaling and polishing, deep cleaning, airflow polishing, and gum disease treatment at our Tanjong Pagar and Marine Parade clinics.
Book Appointment
What is Scaling & Polishing?
Scaling and polishing — also called professional teeth cleaning or dental cleaning — is a routine dental procedure that removes plaque, hardened tartar (calculus), and surface stains that daily brushing and flossing cannot fully reach. It’s one of the most commonly performed dental treatments in Singapore and forms the foundation of preventive oral health care.
A soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms continuously on your teeth.
Unremoved plaque mineralises into hardened tartar within 24–72 hours.
Once hardened, tartar can only be removed with professional instruments.
Dental Cleaning Services at Meiplus Dentalcare
Meiplus Dentalcare offers a range of professional dental cleaning services tailored to your individual oral health needs. Your dentist or oral health therapist will assess your gum condition, tartar levels, and clinical needs before recommending the most appropriate cleaning approach.
Scaling & Polishing
Scaling uses an ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and along the gum line. Polishing then smooths the tooth surface with a soft cup and prophy paste, removing surface stains and making it harder for new plaque to settle. A routine session typically takes around 20–40 minutes.
Periodontitis Deep Cleaning
When gum disease has progressed and tartar has built up below the gum line, a deeper clean called scaling and root planing may be recommended. It removes deposits from the root surfaces and smooths them so the gums can reattach and pockets can shrink, sometimes over more than one visit.
Airflow Polishing
Airflow polishing uses a controlled stream of fine powder, warm water and air to remove plaque (biofilm) and surface stains, including around braces, implants and tight spaces. Many patients find it a comfortable alternative or complement to conventional polishing.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum (periodontal) disease ranges from early gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more advanced periodontitis. Treatment is matched to your condition and may combine professional cleaning, root surface debridement and guidance on home care, with follow-up reviews.
How Often Should You Get Teeth Cleaning in Singapore?
For most adults with good oral health, routine scaling and polishing is generally recommended every 6 months. Some patients may benefit from more frequent appointments, every 3 to 4 months, depending on individual risk factors including:
Signs You May Need a Dental Cleaning
The following signs suggest your oral health may benefit from a professional dental assessment and cleaning. Early intervention helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay from progressing.
Bleeding Gums when Brushing or Flossing
Gums that bleed during routine brushing or flossing are one of the earliest and most common signs of gingivitis, early gum disease caused by plaque accumulation at the gum line. Persistent bleeding warrants a dental assessment.
Persistent Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath (halitosis) that does not resolve with regular brushing and mouthwash may indicate tartar buildup, gum disease, or bacterial activity in the mouth.
Sensitive Teeth
Increased sensitivity to temperature or sweet foods can indicate gum recession or enamel erosion, both of which may be associated with gum disease or tartar accumulation.
Swollen or Tender Gums
Gum tissue that appears red, puffy, or feels tender to touch is a sign of gum inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis.
Visible Tartar or Staining
Yellowish or brownish deposits on the teeth near the gum line are calcified tartar deposits that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Only professional scaling can remove established tartar.
Loose or Shifting Teeth
Teeth that feel loose or appear to have shifted position may indicate advanced periodontitis causing bone loss around the tooth roots. This requires prompt clinical assessment.
Dental Cleaning Cost in Singapore
The cost of scaling and polishing in Singapore varies depending on the amount of tartar present, the type of cleaning required, and whether a follow-up visit is needed. At Meiplus Dentalcare, scaling and polishing starts from S$100.
Your exact fee depends on tartar levels and whether additional treatment such as deep cleaning or gum disease management is required — your dentist will confirm this at your appointment. All prices stated are subject to prevailing GST.
Scaling & Polishing Subsidies in Singapore
MediSave does not cover routine scaling and polishing, as it is not classified as a surgical procedure. However, eligible CHAS, Pioneer Generation, and Merdeka Generation cardholders may receive subsidies on scaling and polishing at Meiplus Dentalcare.
| Scheme | Who Qualifies | Covers Scaling & Polishing | Available at Meiplus |
|---|---|---|---|
| CHAS Blue | Lower-income Singapore Citizens | Yes | ✓ |
| CHAS Orange | Middle-income Singapore Citizens | Yes | ✓ |
| CHAS Green | All Singapore Citizens aged below 65 | Yes | ✓ |
| Pioneer Generation | Singapore Citizens born on or before 31 Dec 1949 | Yes | ✓ |
| Merdeka Generation | Singapore Citizens born 1 Jan 1950 – 31 Dec 1959 | Yes | ✓ |
| MediSave | Not applicable for routine dental cleaning | No | ✗ |
Please note: Subsidy amounts and eligibility are subject to MOH and CHAS guidelines and may vary by procedure. Please contact Meiplus Dentalcare to confirm your eligibility and applicable subsidy amounts before your appointment. All prices stated are subject to prevailing GST.
FAQs on Dental Cleaning
What is scaling and polishing?+
Scaling and polishing is a routine dental procedure that removes plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth using an ultrasonic scaler and hand instruments, then smooths and polishes the tooth surface to remove surface stains and make it harder for new plaque to settle.
Is scaling and polishing the same as teeth cleaning?+
Yes. “Scaling and polishing,” “dental cleaning,” and “teeth cleaning” all refer to the same professional procedure — removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains that brushing and flossing at home cannot fully address.
How often should I get scaling and polishing in Singapore?+
Most adults with good oral health should get scaling and polishing every 6 months. Patients with gum disease, heavy tartar buildup, braces, or certain medical conditions may benefit from more frequent visits, every 3 to 4 months — your dentist will recommend a schedule based on your individual risk factors.
Is scaling and polishing painful?+
Most patients experience little to no pain during scaling and polishing — some sensitivity or mild discomfort is possible, especially around inflamed gums or areas with heavy tartar buildup. Your dentist can adjust technique or offer numbing options if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
Does scaling and polishing damage or weaken my teeth?+
No. Scaling and polishing removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface without damaging healthy enamel. Any temporary sensitivity afterward is normal and usually resolves within a day or two — the procedure actually protects your teeth and gums by removing the buildup that leads to decay and gum disease.
Will scaling and polishing whiten my teeth?+
Scaling and polishing removes surface stains from coffee, tea, and food, which can make your teeth look brighter and cleaner — but it is not a teeth whitening treatment and won’t change the natural shade of your enamel. Ask us about our LED teeth whitening options if you’re looking for a whiter smile.
What is the difference between scaling and polishing and deep cleaning?+
Routine scaling and polishing cleans the tooth surface and along the gum line. Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) goes further, removing tartar and bacteria from below the gum line and smoothing the tooth root — it’s recommended when gum disease has progressed and pockets have formed between the gums and teeth.
How much does scaling and polishing cost in Singapore?+
At Meiplus Dentalcare, scaling and polishing starts from S$100, depending on tartar levels and whether additional treatment is needed. CHAS, Pioneer Generation, and Merdeka Generation cardholders may be eligible for subsidies. Prices are subject to prevailing GST.
Can I claim scaling and polishing under MediSave or CHAS?+
MediSave does not cover routine scaling and polishing since it’s not a surgical procedure. However, CHAS Blue, Orange, and Green cardholders, as well as Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation cardholders, may be eligible for subsidies at Meiplus Dentalcare — see the subsidy table above for details.
Dental Clinics Near You
With a friendly team, internationally trained dentists, and advanced digital dentistry, we deliver comprehensive dental care in full compliance with MOH standards.
