Teeth scaling is a non-surgical dental procedure designed to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the surfaces of your teeth, especially beneath the gumline. When not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which can contribute to gum infections, cavities, and even tooth loss. Dentists use ultrasonic scalers and manual instruments to break down and remove these deposits. In many cases, teeth scaling is paired with root planing, where the roots are smoothed to allow the gums to heal and reattach properly.