Dental Scaling in Geneva: Frequency, Price and Benefits
Scaling is the most common dental treatment in Switzerland. It is also one of the most neglected. Many Genevans postpone their appointment with the dental hygienist. Due to lack of time. By forgetfulness. Sometimes out of fear.
This is a mistake. Professional scaling is the pillar of oral and dental prevention. It prevents cavities, gum disease and tooth loss. It also contributes to general health.
At Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries, our qualified dental hygienists carry out complete scaling with the latest generation equipment. This guide tells you everything you need to know.
What is descaling?
Scaling consists of removing tartar (calculus) deposited on tooth surfaces. Tartar is mineralized dental plaque. It forms when plaque is not removed by brushing. Once hardened, tartar can no longer be removed by ordinary brushing, even thorough brushing.
Tartar is mainly deposited in two places. Supragingival tartar forms above the gum line, often behind the lower incisors and on the upper molars (in front of the salivary ducts). Subgingival tartar forms under the gums, in periodontal pockets. He is invisible but more dangerous.
Professional scaling uses ultrasonic and manual instruments to remove tartar from both areas. It is followed by polishing which smoothes the tooth surfaces and delays the reformation of plaque.
How often should you do scaling?
The standard recommendation is two scalings per year, or one every six months. This is the minimum for most patients.
However, the optimal frequency varies depending on your profile.
Every 3 to 4 months: - Patients with periodontitis (gum disease) - Smokers - Diabetics - Patients with dental implants - Patients undergoing orthodontic treatment (braces) - Patients with a tendency to rapid tartar formation
Every 6 months: - Adults in good oral health - Adolescents and children from 6 years old
Once a year: - Exceptionally, for patients with impeccable hygiene and no risk factors
At Studio Smile, our hygienists evaluate your profile and recommend a personalized frequency. We set up automatic reminders so you never forget your appointment again.
The benefits of scaling
Descaling is not a luxury. It’s an investment in your health.
Prevention of periodontitis. Tartar irritates the gums and causes inflammation (gingivitis). Without treatment, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, an infection that destroys the bone supporting the teeth. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults in Switzerland.
Caries prevention. Tartar harbors millions of cariogenic bacteria. By removing it, the risk of new cavities is significantly reduced.
Fresh breath. Tartar and bacterial plaque produce volatile sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath (halitosis). Regular descaling eliminates this source.
Whiter smile. Tartar yellows the teeth. Tea, coffee and tobacco stains cling to tartar. Scaling followed by polishing restores teeth to their natural shine.
Protection of general health. Research shows links between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, premature birth and Alzheimer’s disease. Taking care of your gums means taking care of your body.
How does scaling work at Studio Smile?
A scaling session at Studio Smile lasts between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the amount of tartar and the sensitivity of the patient.
1. Periodontal assessment. The hygienist examines your gums. She measures the depth of the periodontal pockets with a probe. She assesses bleeding on probing, an indicator of inflammation. This assessment is documented and compared from one visit to another.
2. Ultrasonic scaling. An ultrasonic instrument breaks up tartar using high-frequency vibrations. A jet of water flushes away debris. This is the quickest and most comfortable method.
3. Manual scaling. Manual curettes and scalers allow precision cleaning, particularly under the gums and in hard-to-reach spaces.
4. Polishing. A fine abrasive paste applied with a rotating cup smooths tooth surfaces. Polishing makes the tooth smoother, which delays plaque adhesion.
5. Application of fluoride. A professional fluoride gel is applied to strengthen the enamel and reduce post-scaling sensitivity.
6. Personalized advice. The hygienist shows you areas to improve in your brushing. She recommends the appropriate instruments (electric brush, dental floss, brush heads, water flosser).
Price of scaling in Geneva in 2026
Prices for scaling in Geneva vary depending on the duration of the session and the professional consulted.
| Service | Price (CHF) |
|---|---|
| Standard descaling (30 min) | 150 – 200 |
| Complete descaling with polishing (45 min) | 200 – 280 |
| Thorough scaling (60 min, periodontitis) | 280 – 400 |
| Complete periodontal assessment | included in the session |
At Studio Smile, our qualified dental hygienists work on sessions of 45 to 60 minutes. No rush. Each tooth receives the necessary attention.
Is scaling painful?
The majority of patients do not feel any pain. Sensitivity may occur in certain areas, especially if the gums are inflamed or if there is abundant tartar under the gums.
For sensitive patients, our hygienists apply a local anesthetic gel. In cases of deep subgingival scaling, local anesthesia may be offered.
After the session, a slight sensitivity to cold is normal for 24 to 48 hours. It disappears spontaneously.
FAQ
How often should scaling be done? Twice a year for most patients. Three to four times a year for smokers, diabetics, patients with periodontitis or dental implants. Your hygienist at Studio Smile determines the ideal frequency according to your profile.
Does scaling damage enamel? No. Ultrasonic and manual instruments used by professional hygienists are designed to remove tartar without damaging enamel. The final polishing smoothes the tooth surface and protects it.
Is scaling reimbursed by insurance in Switzerland? LAMal does not reimburse scaling. Supplementary dental insurance generally covers one to two scaling per year, depending on the contract. Check your coverage.
What is the difference between scaling and polishing? Scaling removes tartar (hard mineralized deposit). Polishing smoothes tooth surfaces with an abrasive paste to delay plaque reformation. The two are complementary and carried out during the same session at Studio Smile.
Take care of your gums. Book your scaling at Studio Smile in Chêne-Bougeries. Qualified hygienists, state-of-the-art equipment, unhurried sessions. Appointment online via OneDoc or by phone.