What is the Price for Scaling and Polishing in Singapore?
Scaling and polishing are dental procedures aimed at maintaining good oral health. Scaling removes plaque and tartar, while polishing eliminates stains. For a healthy set of teeth and gums, we recommend a visit every 6 months. Both procedures can (and often are) carried out together to enhance the effectiveness and longevity of the outcome.
Prices for scaling and polishing in Singapore are conditional upon a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, dental health and the type of establishment—more on that below.
Summary:
The price for scaling and polishing ranges between $50 to $250, influenced by a range of factors. At Dr Mike Teoh Dental Clinic, scaling and polishing costs:
- $98.10 onwards for simple cleaning
- $130.80 onwards for complex cleaning
- $163.50 onwards for deep cleaning (Root Planing)
- $38.15 onwards for stain removal (Air-Polishing)
Prices vary depending on individual dental needs. We’ll recommend the most appropriate procedure after consultation.
An Overview of Scaling and Polishing
What is Scaling?
Scaling is a process that involves removing plaque, tartar (hardened plaque) and stains from your teeth, using specialised dental tools. Plaque is that white film on your teeth that you can scrape off with finger nails. When it’s been left for too long, it calcifies (hardens) into a deposit, which we call tartar.
Without intervention, plaque (and eventually tartar) accumulates along the gum line, increasing the risk of gum disease and dental decay.
Polishing
Polishing usually takes place after scaling. It involves the use of rotating brush or rubber cup attachment to remove residual stains and plaque after a scaling procedure.
For the more stubborn stains, an air polishing device (also known as a Prophyjet) is used to gently but effectively blast away the discolouration using a stream of pressurised air and abrasive sand particles.
Factors that Influence the Cost of Scaling and Polishing
The Condition of Your Teeth
The severity of your tartar, plaque and stain buildup can affect the time and effort required for the procedure. Some patients may require a simple cleaning procedure that can be completed in a single session. Others may require more extensive care, involving multiple visits and treatments such as root planing to address deeper plaque and tartar buildup.
Dental Practice
You have two main options for scaling and polishing in Singapore: public or private institutions. Public institutions typically charge less—around $49.80 to $89.20—but often have long waiting times. According to the Ministry of Health, the median waiting time for non-emergency dental services (like scaling and polishing) at polyclinics is approximately three months. Private dental practices charge between $90 to $220, with shorter wait times and more flexible scheduling.
Location
Dental clinics located in areas such as the Central Business Districts (CBD) may charge higher prices for dental services due to the increased operating costs of running a practice within high rental zones.
Benefits of Regular Scaling and Polishing
- By removing stains, scaling and polishing can make your teeth appear cleaner and brighter.
- Scaling and polishing can also help prevent oral diseases such as cavities and tooth decay.
- Regular scaling and polishing can help reduce the risk of gum recession and gum diseases, both of which contribute to shaky teeth, and, in more serious cases, tooth loss.
Are There Any Subsidies for Scaling and Polishing?
Yes, definitely! Individuals eligible for the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS), Pioneer Generation (PG), and Merdeka Generation (MG) programmes can receive subsidies for both scaling and polishing. These subsidies range from $13.50 to $30.50 off for polishing, and $20 to $40 off for scaling, limited to two sessions each per calendar year, depending on the scheme you qualify for.
The Bottom Line
So what is the price for scaling and polishing in Singapore? The truth is, it depends. Every smile is different. If you’re considering scaling and polishing, we recommend booking a consultation to get a clearer estimate of the cost. Our team can help assess your oral health and determine the level of care you need. Whether it’s a routine cleaning or preventive dentistry, we’re here to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
