How Misconceptions Are Preventing Millions from Achieving Healthy Teeth and Gums
If you’ve ever heard someone say, “Scaling se daant hil jaata hai,” or “Mere friend ko scaling ke baad daant gir gaya,”—you’re not alone. In India, there’s a cloud of misinformation around a very basic, preventive, and globally recommended dental procedure: oral prophylaxis, more commonly known as scaling.
At Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd, located at GE-78, Rajdanga Main Road near Kasba Ruby Hospital Area, we regularly encounter patients who either delay or completely avoid this crucial treatment due to myths passed down through relatives, WhatsApp forwards, YouTube videos, or most concerning even some misinformed dental professionals.
Let’s clear the air. Let’s talk facts. And let’s address the rising concern of neglect and disrespect toward oral health in India.
What is Oral Prophylaxis (Scaling), Really?
Oral prophylaxis is a professional preventive gum treatment procedure done by dentists to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the teeth and gums. It prevents gum disease, bad breath, decay, bone loss, and tooth loss. Worldwide, it’s a standard recommendation to get it done every 6 months.
But in India? The treatment is:
- Avoided until absolutely necessary
- Misunderstood as a cosmetic procedure
- Mistrusted due to baseless fears
- Undervalued, especially by tobacco users who think it’s just about looks
Common Indian Misconceptions About Scaling
Let’s break down some of the myths and the facts that refute them:
- “Scaling se daant hil jaata hai.”
Myth: Scaling loosens teeth.
Fact: Scaling removes the tartar that hides real gum disease. Once the tartar is gone, loose teeth that were already compromised become visible. Scaling doesn’t cause looseness it reveals it, rather in most cases can help in reducing the mobility of teeth. If not done in time can lead to tooth loss due to mobility.
- “Mujhe pain ya problem toh nahi hai, kyun karwana?”
Myth: No pain = no need for treatment.
Fact: Gum disease is silent. By the time you feel pain, significant irreversible damage has often already occurred. Preventive care is about stopping disease before symptoms appear.
- “Scaling se enamel nikal jaata hai.”
Myth: Scaling wears off the enamel.
Fact: Professional scaling only removes surface stains and tartar. Enamel is not removed. The tools and techniques used by trained dentists are calibrated to protect tooth structure.
- “Toothpastes and ghar ke nuskhe kaafi hai.”
Myth: Home remedies like lemon, salt, oil pulling, or herbal pastes can replace scaling.
Fact: These do not remove tartar, and in many cases, they harm the enamel and irritate gums. Scaling is the only scientific and effective method to remove hardened calculus.
- “Sirf daag hata do, mujhko aur kuch nahi chahiye.”
Myth: For tobacco/paan users, scaling is just a stain-removal process.
Fact: While scaling does remove visible stains, the goal is disease prevention. Many patients only want to look clean for interviews or events, but ignore deep-seated gum infection, cavities, and bone loss.
The Bigger Problem: Misinformation from Dentists Too?
Shockingly, some patients tell us that other dentists have discouraged scaling saying, “It’s not needed unless you have pain,” Why? Because scaling can be time-consuming, physically demanding, and not very profitable.
This kind of clinical negligence leads to serious long-term consequences, especially in India, where oral hygiene education is already limited. We at Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd believe in patient-first ethics, not shortcuts.
Special Concern: Pan Masala & Oral Tobacco Users
A major concern is the attitude of patients who consume tobacco, paan, gutkha, or pan masala. These patients:
- Come only for aesthetic scaling before social events.
- Consider gum bleeding, recession, or cavities as “normal.”
- Refuse follow-up care or lifestyle correction.
- Do not value the skill, time, and effort dentists put in.
They treat scaling like a car wash—not a health intervention. This behavior is deeply problematic and shows a complete disregard for dental health and scientific care.
Globally, Scaling is the Norm. Why Not in India?
In developed countries, dental scaling is routine, respectful, and valued. Patients prioritize prevention. Children are taught from school age about the importance of gum health.
India has the highest number of oral cancer and gum disease cases—and yet, the most neglect.
This has to change. It starts with awareness. And awareness starts with you.
Why Choose Professional Oral Prophylaxis?
- Stops gum bleeding and bone loss early
- Removes harmful bacteria and prevents decay
- Improves breath and appearance
- Protects against heart disease, diabetes complications, and more
- Saves money by preventing complex treatments later
At Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd, we take every patient through a clear explanation of what oral prophylaxis involves, why it’s essential, and how it contributes to your overall health. Our goal is not just clean teeth—but a healthy mouth and a confident smile.
What You Should Do Now
- Book a scaling appointment every 6 months
- Stop trusting social media hacks or hearsay
- Ask questions—but ask your dentist, not the internet
- Encourage your family, especially tobacco users, to get regular check-ups
- Understand the long-term health value of gum maintenance
Final Words:
If your perception of scaling is shaped by myths, it’s time to update your mindset.
If you think it’s only cosmetic, you’re missing the bigger picture.
If you treat your mouth like an afterthought, your body will eventually show you why that was a mistake.
Trust science. Trust prevention. Trust your dentist.
Visit www.thesmileydental.com to book your appointment at Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd, near Taj Vivanta Hotel, Kolkata, and give your gums the care they truly deserve.
Edited by Dr Sourav Ghosh,
Clinical Head & Principal Dentist At Smiley Dental Treatment Centre Pvt Ltd
