Check up and Scaling
What the Check-up Includes
- A comprehensive examination of:
- Each tooth, individually — looking for new decay, cracks or wear
- Existing fillings, crowns and other restorations
- Gums — checking for inflammation, bleeding and pocket depth
- Soft tissues (tongue, cheeks, palate, floor of mouth) for any abnormalities
- Bite and jaw joint function
- Bitewing X-rays where due — for decay between teeth
What Professional Scaling Includes
Even with perfect brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) in 24–72 hours — and no amount of home cleaning can remove it. Tartar can only be removed with professional dental instruments.
- Modern scaling at Dentistar includes:
- Ultrasonic scaling — gentle vibrations break down tartar above and below the gum line
- Hand-instrument finishing — for areas the ultrasonic can't reach
- Air polishing — removes surface stains from coffee, tea, wine and smoking
- Professional polishing — leaves teeth smooth, so plaque has fewer places to attach
- Fluoride application — strengthens enamel after cleaning
Why Both Together?
A check-up without scaling lets us see problems but doesn’t address the plaque and tartar that are causing them. Scaling without a check-up cleans your teeth but may miss developing issues. Combined, they form the most efficient preventive appointment — typically 45–60 minutes.
The Procedure Step by Step
Medical history review:
We update your medical history, medications and any changes since your last visit.
Comprehensive clinical examination:
Visual and tactile examination of teeth, gums and soft tissues. Periodontal probing to measure gum pocket depths
X-rays (where due)
Digital bitewings to check for decay between teeth — usually every 18–24 months for low-risk patients.
Ultrasonic scaling
Removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, using vibration and water. Most patients find this comfortable; we can apply topical anaesthetic gel if needed.
Polishing & stain removal:
Air polishing and professional polishing paste remove surface stains and leave teeth smooth.
Fluoride application
A short-contact fluoride varnish or gel strengthens enamel and reduces sensitivity.
Findings discussion & home care advice:
We discuss what we found, demonstrate any brushing or flossing techniques that could help you at home, and plan any further treatment if needed
Who Should Have More Frequent Cleanings?
- Patients with a history of gum disease or periodontitis
- Smokers
- Diabetic patients
- Patients with orthodontic braces
- Patients with dental implants
- Patients with multiple crowns, bridges or fillings
- Pregnant women (hormonal changes increase gum sensitivity)
Aftercare
- Avoid staining foods and drinks for 24 hours (coffee, tea, red wine, curry, beetroot)
- Mild gum tenderness for 1–2 days is normal — use a soft brush
- If a fluoride varnish was applied, avoid hot food/drinks for 30 minutes
- Continue brushing twice daily and flossing once daily
What Professional Scaling Includes
Even with perfect brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus) in 24–72 hours — and no amount of home cleaning can remove it. Tartar can only be removed with professional dental instruments.
- Modern scaling at Dentistar includes:
- Ultrasonic scaling — gentle vibrations break down tartar above and below the gum line
- Hand-instrument finishing — for areas the ultrasonic can't reach
- Air polishing — removes surface stains from coffee, tea, wine and smoking
- Professional polishing — leaves teeth smooth, so plaque has fewer places to attach
- Fluoride application — strengthens enamel after cleaning
Why Both Together?
A check-up without scaling lets us see problems but doesn’t address the plaque and tartar that are causing them. Scaling without a check-up cleans your teeth but may miss developing issues. Combined, they form the most efficient preventive appointment — typically 45–60 minutes.
Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the scaling hurt?
For most patients, no. Modern ultrasonic scaling is fast and gentle. Patients with sensitive teeth or gums may feel mild discomfort, which we can manage with topical anaesthetic gel. After the cleaning, mild gum tenderness for 1–2 days is normal.
How long does a check-up and scaling appointment take?
Typically 45–60 minutes for most adults. Patients with heavier tartar build-up or who haven’t been in for a long time may need a longer appointment or a split into two visits.
Will scaling weaken my teeth or enamel?
No. Scaling removes tartar from the tooth surface — it does not remove enamel. The misconception that scaling “damages” teeth often comes from temporary sensitivity that resolves within a few days as your gums adapt to a healthier state.
Why do my teeth feel sensitive after a cleaning?
If tartar has been covering parts of your teeth — especially near the gum line — removing it exposes surfaces that may not be used to direct contact with food and air. This sensitivity usually fades within a week. A desensitising toothpaste can help.
How much does a check-up and scaling cost in Cyprus?
Costs depend on the complexity of the cleaning needed. At Dentistar, we provide a clear quote at the start of the appointment. Most insurance providers cover preventive cleanings — we issue detailed receipts for reimbursement.
What if I haven't been to the dentist for many years?
Don’t worry — and don’t avoid the visit. We’re not here to judge, we’re here to help. For patients who haven’t had a cleaning in years, we may need 2–3 appointments to safely and gently remove built-up tartar. The first visit is a no-pressure assessment.
Ready to Book Your Appointment?
Contact us today to schedule your visit and take the first step toward a healthier smile.