I would like to talk about 'scaling', one of the essential care practices for dental health.

When should scaling be started? At what age is it generally recommended?

What is scaling?

Scaling is a dental procedure that physically removes tartar (hardened plaque) and plaque (soft plaque) accumulated on the surface of the teeth. It plays a significant role in maintaining the health of teeth and gums by thoroughly cleaning areas that are difficult to brush perfectly with just a toothbrush.

At what age should it be started?

• Generally, regular dental check-ups start in elementary school, and scaling is often initiated after consulting with a dentist if necessary. However, for children who do not accumulate much tartar, it may not be necessary to have scaling every time.

• Typically, regular scaling is recommended starting around the age of 20.

• In South Korea, scaling covered by health insurance is available once a year for those aged 19 and older.

How often should it be done?

Generally, if you have healthy gums, it is good to have scaling once a year. However, in the following cases, you may need to have it done more frequently after consulting with a dentist.

• If you have periodontal disease (gum disease) or are undergoing treatment

• If tartar accumulates quickly or if your gums are sensitive

• If you are wearing braces and plaque accumulates easily

Post-scaling precautions

Scaling cleans the surface of the teeth, but you may experience slight sensitivity. Usually, this mild sensitivity lasts for a few days to a maximum of 1-2 weeks, and it naturally alleviates over time. After scaling, it is advisable to avoid very cold or hard foods for a while, and to maintain regular dental check-ups and proper brushing habits.

The important thing is regular care!

While scaling is important, ultimately, the state of your dental health depends on how thoroughly you manage your teeth in daily life. Proper brushing (at least twice a day, within 3 minutes after meals), using dental floss or interdental brushes for supplementary care, and maintaining a balanced diet are the best preventive measures.

In summary, scaling should be done at an appropriate time based on the condition of your teeth and gums rather than adhering to a strict rule of "at what age should it start."

For healthy teeth and gums, and a beautiful smile, make sure to prioritize regular care, check-ups, and scaling!