Can teeth cleaning remove dental calculus?

Oct 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

When dental calculus is primarily distributed on the tooth surfaces and along the gum line, without invading deep gum tissues or causing serious issues such as periodontal pocket depths exceeding 4 millimeters or significant alveolar bone resorption, ultrasonic teeth cleaning can effectively break up and remove the calculus. This reduces irritation to the gums and lowers the risk of gingivitis flare-ups.

Dental calculus attached to the gums can usually be removed by teeth cleaning when it hasn't caused severe periodontal disease. However, if the calculus has extended deep beneath the gumline and led to complex pathological changes, simple cleaning may not completely eliminate it. If you experience any physical discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow professional medical advice for treatment.

When dental calculus is mainly located on the tooth surface and along the gum line, without invading deep gum tissues or causing serious issues such as periodontal pockets deeper than 4 millimeters or significant alveolar bone loss, procedures like ultrasonic teeth cleaning can effectively break up and remove the calculus. This reduces irritation to the gums and lowers the risk of gingivitis.

If calculus has accumulated over a long period, extending below the gumline and forming deep periodontal pockets, or is accompanied by symptoms such as alveolar bone resorption and loose teeth, routine teeth cleaning alone cannot fully remove the deeply embedded deposits. In such cases, initial cleaning should be followed by further treatments like periodontal scaling and root planing to thoroughly clear subgingival calculus and control the progression of periodontal disease.

After teeth cleaning, if tooth sensitivity occurs, desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate discomfort. It's also important to maintain good oral hygiene—brush carefully twice daily, use dental floss regularly, and schedule periodic dental checkups and cleanings at a clinic to prevent significant re-accumulation of dental calculus.

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