Dental Hygiene & Scale and Polish in Clapham

Professional dental hygiene is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. At SW11 Medical Clinic in Clapham Junction, our skilled dental hygienists provide thorough scaling, polishing, and preventive treatments that go far beyond what you can achieve with brushing and flossing alone.

What Is a Scale and Polish?

A scale and polish is a professional cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar (calculus) from your teeth, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. Scaling uses specialised ultrasonic and hand instruments to remove hardened deposits from above and below the gum line. Polishing smooths the tooth surfaces, making it harder for plaque to accumulate. Sandblasting (air polishing) uses a fine powder spray to remove stubborn stains from tea, coffee, red wine, and smoking.

Who Needs Professional Dental Hygiene?

Everyone benefits from regular professional cleaning, but it is particularly important if you have a tendency to build up tartar quickly, bleeding or swollen gums (signs of gingivitis), bad breath (halitosis), staining from food, drinks, or smoking, a history of gum disease, or dental implants, braces, or bridges that require specialist cleaning. We recommend professional hygiene appointments every 3 to 6 months, depending on your individual needs.

The Hygiene Appointment

A typical hygiene appointment at our Clapham clinic lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Your hygienist will first assess your gum health, measuring pocket depths and noting any areas of concern. Ultrasonic scaling removes tartar deposits efficiently and comfortably. Hand instruments are used for detailed cleaning in specific areas. Sandblasting removes surface stains, and polishing leaves your teeth smooth and gleaming. Your hygienist will also provide personalised oral hygiene instruction, demonstrating the most effective brushing and flossing techniques for your specific needs.

Recovery and Aftercare

There is no recovery time needed after a hygiene appointment. Your teeth may feel slightly sensitive for a day or two, particularly if significant tartar was removed from below the gum line. Your gums may appear slightly pink or bleed minimally, which resolves within 24 hours. You can eat and drink normally immediately afterward.

Pricing

Invest in prevention. A deposit of £50 is charged on all appointments.

Scaling and polishing: £120
Scaling, sandblasting, polishing + fluoridation: £170
Sandblasting (air polishing): £120
Fluoridation: £60
Hygiene instruction: Free of charge

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have a scale and polish?

Most patients benefit from professional cleaning every 6 months. However, if you are prone to gum disease or heavy tartar build-up, your hygienist may recommend appointments every 3 to 4 months.

Does scaling damage my teeth?

No. Professional scaling removes harmful deposits without damaging your tooth enamel. The instruments used are designed specifically for safe, effective cleaning. Leaving tartar in place is far more damaging to your teeth and gums.

Can a hygienist help with bad breath?

Yes. Bad breath is often caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar deposits. Professional cleaning removes these deposits, and your hygienist can advise on techniques to maintain fresh breath between appointments.