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Dental · 스케일링
Scaling and Professional Cleaning
Ultrasonic removal of tartar above and just below the gum line, then polishing. About 30 to 40 minutes, no recovery time.
Quick facts
- Korean name: 스케일링
- Procedure time: About 30 to 40 minutes
- Anesthesia: Usually none; topical gel if sensitive
- Sessions: 1 visit
- Downtime: None; gums may bleed slightly for a day
- Results: Immediate
- Lasts: Tartar returns over months; repeat every 6 to 12 months
What is Scaling and Cleaning?
Scaling removes hardened tartar that brushing cannot shift. Korean clinics use ultrasonic scalers, and many add airflow polishing with a fine powder spray to remove coffee and tea stains.
It is often the first step before whitening, veneers or orthodontics, and a quick check for decay and gum problems.
How it works
A dental hygienist or dentist uses a vibrating ultrasonic tip with a water spray to break up tartar, then finishes with hand instruments and polishing. Deep cleaning below the gums (root planing) for gum disease is a separate, longer treatment.
Who it suits
- Routine cleaning every 6 to 12 months
- Before whitening or veneers
- Visible tartar or bleeding gums
- Coffee, tea or smoking stains
Who should skip it or wait
- Deep gum pockets that need root planing or gum treatment
- People with severe sensitivity who need anaesthetic first
Side effects and risks
- Short-term sensitivity
- Gum bleeding
- Gaps between teeth more noticeable once tartar is removed
Aftercare
- Avoid very hot or cold drinks if sensitive
- Use a soft brush for a couple of days
- Floss daily to slow tartar build-up
Planning around your trip
Book scaling early in your stay if you also plan whitening or veneers, as those should follow a clean.
Dental clinics near Apgujeong
- Seok Plant Dental Hospital
(석플란트치과병원)
Dental, 13 min walk from Hakdong Station - S Plant Dental Hospital
(에스플란트치과병원)
Dental, 8 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station - Apgujeong Oracle Dental Clinic
(압구정오라클치과의원)
Dental, 3 min walk from Apgujeong Station - Eastman Orthodontics Dental Clinic
(이스트만치과교정과치과의원)
Dental, 1 min walk from Apgujeong Station - O&O Dental Clinic
(오앤오치과의원)
Dental, 1 min walk from Sinsa Station - The Face Dental Clinic
(더페이스치과의원)
Dental, 7 min walk from Apgujeong Station - Dream Orthodontics Dental Clinic
(드림치과교정과치과의원)
Dental, 6 min walk from Apgujeong Station - Smile D Dental Clinic
(스마일디치과의원)
Dental, 2 min walk from Sinsa Station
Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.
Scaling and Cleaning price
Prices for this treatment depend on the doctor's assessment, so clinics quote after consultation. Message us and we collect quotes from clinics near Apgujeong Station.
Scaling and Cleaning questions
Will Korean insurance pay for my cleaning?
Annual scaling is covered for people enrolled in Korea's National Health Insurance. Visitors without it pay the clinic's non-covered fee.
Does scaling damage enamel?
No. The ultrasonic tip works on tartar. Sensitivity afterwards comes from exposed root surfaces that were covered with tartar.
What is airflow cleaning?
A spray of water, air and fine powder that lifts surface stain and biofilm. It is often added to scaling for an extra fee.
Why do my teeth feel gappy after the cleaning?
Tartar had filled the spaces between teeth. The gaps were there already, and gums often tighten up as inflammation settles.
Can I get scaling and whitening the same day?
Many clinics do scaling first and whitening right after or a few days later, once gums have settled.
How long after scaling can I drink coffee?
You can drink straight away, but if airflow polishing was used, waiting about an hour helps avoid fresh staining on the just-cleaned surface.
Plan your visit
Get a quote before you fly
Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.