No amount of brushing removes tartar. Once plaque has hardened, only dental instruments can clean it off — usually in a single visit.

1. What is tartar?

Plaque is a soft film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. If it is not brushed away, minerals in saliva harden it into tartar (calculus), which sticks firmly at the neck of the tooth and under the gum. Tartar harbours bacteria that cause gum inflammation and bad breath, and over time can lead to periodontitis and loose teeth.

2. Signs you need a scale and polish

Hard yellow or brown deposits at the gum line, especially behind the lower front teeth.
Red, swollen gums, or gums that bleed when you brush.
Persistent bad breath despite regular brushing.
Staining from tea, coffee or smoking.
More than six months since your last check-up.

3. How it is done at HiDentist

Examination of teeth and gums: the dentist checks how much tartar there is and the condition of the gums. The examination and X-ray are free.
Ultrasonic scaling: a vibrating ultrasonic tip with a water spray lifts tartar off above and below the gum line without wearing away enamel.
Polishing: the tooth surfaces are smoothed and remaining stains removed, so plaque sticks less easily.
Home-care advice tailored to your teeth.

4. How long does it take, and does it hurt?

It is usually done in one visit. You will feel vibration and cool water; some sensitivity is possible, especially where there is a lot of tartar or the gum is inflamed. Teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold for a day or two afterwards, then it settles.

5. Cost

Scaling: 100,000 – 500,000 ₫ per procedure, depending on the amount of tartar.
Examination and X-ray: free.

If there are deep periodontal pockets, the dentist may suggest pocket curettage (200,000 ₫ per tooth). See the full price list, including approximate prices in US dollars.

6. If you are visiting Nha Trang

A scale and polish takes one visit and fits into any trip.
It combines well with the free examination: the dentist checks for cavities at the same time.
Message us on WhatsApp and we will find a time that suits you.

For what else can be done during a holiday, read Dental treatment while visiting Nha Trang.

7. Afterwards

Gums may bleed slightly on the first day — brush gently, but do not skip brushing.
Gaps between teeth may feel wider because the tartar has gone; the gums tighten up within a few days.
Use floss or interdental brushes every day.
Repeat about every six months, or as your dentist advises.

8. Frequently asked questions

Does scaling damage enamel?

No. The ultrasonic tip lifts tartar off by vibration and does not grind the enamel. The feeling that teeth are "thinner" or have gaps afterwards is simply because the layer of tartar is gone.

Will my teeth be whiter?

Scaling and polishing remove tartar and surface stains, so teeth look cleaner and brighter, but their natural shade does not change. To go lighter than your natural colour you need teeth whitening — and scaling should be done first.