Is Scaling and Polishing Painful? What Patients in Lagos Should Really Expect
Dovers Dental Clinic • Lekki Phase 1, Lagos
Is Scaling & Polishing Painful?
Here’s the Honest Truth.
If you’ve been delaying a dental cleaning because you’re worried it might hurt, this guide is for you. Clear, gentle, no drama.
Reading time: 3–4 mins
Best for: Sensitive teeth, first-timers, “I’m scared” patients
Quick Answer: For most people, scaling & polishing is not painful. If you have sensitive teeth or heavy tartar buildup, you may feel mild sensitivity — and we can make it comfortable.
What you’ll learn in this guide
- What scaling & polishing actually does
- Why some people feel sensitivity (and how to avoid it)
- What “pain” usually means vs what’s normal
- How often you should clean your teeth in Lagos
What is scaling and polishing?
Scaling and polishing is a professional dental cleaning that removes plaque, hardened tartar, and surface stains — especially in areas your toothbrush can’t reach. It supports gum health, fresher breath, and long-term oral hygiene.
What it helps with
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Tartar buildup
- Early gum disease prevention
What it is NOT
- A teeth whitening treatment
- A procedure that “weakens” teeth
- Something you only do when there’s pain
Is it painful?
Most patients feel pressure, not pain. What you usually feel is gentle vibration, water cooling, and light scraping.
When sensitivity can happen
- It’s been 12+ months since your last cleaning
- Your gums are inflamed or bleeding easily
- You already have sensitive teeth
- There’s heavy tartar buildup (especially behind lower front teeth)
Myth vs Fact
Myth: “Scaling makes teeth weak.”
Fact: Scaling removes tartar and bacteria that cause gum disease — it protects your teeth and gums.
Myth: “If it’s sensitive, it means something went wrong.”
Fact: Sensitivity usually means gums were inflamed or there was heavy buildup — and it improves as gums heal.
FAQ (tap to open)
How often should I do scaling and polishing?
Can I do it if I have sensitive teeth?
Is scaling the same as whitening?
Ready for a gentle dental cleaning in Lekki?
Dovers Dental Clinic offers calm, clear, patient-first care — even if you’re anxious. Same-day appointments are available.
