Half-Mouth, Quadrant & Sextant Scaling: Why We Sometimes Split a Cleaning
At a Glance
- Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from above and, when required, below the gums.
- For comfort and thoroughness, your hygienist may complete care by half mouth, quadrant, or sextant.
- Splitting care helps reduce tenderness, allows time for healing, and lets us focus where deposits are heaviest.
- Your plan is personalized based on your exam, gum measurements, and medical history.
What is Dental Scaling?
Scaling is the professional removal of soft biofilm (plaque) and hardened deposits (calculus/tartar) that can’t be brushed off at home. We use ultrasonic and/or hand instruments to clean tooth surfaces so gums can calm, inflammation is reduced, and oral health improves.
Why Split a Cleaning Into More Than One Visit?
Your hygienist may recommend half-mouth, quadrant, or sextant appointments due to:
- The amount/hardness of plaque and calculus
- Deposits below the gums that need focused time
- Comfort and numbness considerations (avoiding a fully numb mouth)
- Allowing healing between sessions
- Time limits or medical history that make shorter visits better
This approach lets us clean thoroughly without overwhelming your mouth in one visit.
How We Divide the Mouth
- Half mouth: one side at a time (left/right) or top vs. bottom teeth.
- Quadrant: four sections — upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left.
- Sextant: six sections — upper right back, upper front, upper left back, lower right back, lower front, lower left back.
We’ll recommend the pattern that best matches your oral condition and comfort.
What to Expect
Assessment: medical review, gum measurements, and radiographs only if clinically indicated.
Treatment: targeted scaling of the planned area(s); local anesthetic may be used when appropriate.
Home-care guidance: tailored brushing, flossing, interdental or irrigator tips.
Follow-up: we review healing, complete remaining areas as needed, and set an ongoing maintenance interval suited to you.
After-Care
- Mild tenderness or sensitivity for 24–48 hours is common.
- Brush and floss gently; a desensitizing toothpaste may help.
- Warm salt-water rinses can be soothing.
- Call your dentist if you have persistent pain, swelling, or prolonged bleeding.
When to Book
- You’ve been told you have calculus below the gums
- You notice bleeding gums, bad breath, or tartar build-up
- It’s been 6–12 months since your last professional cleaning
- You’ve been advised to complete care by half mouth, quadrant, or sextant
Book Your Appointment Today
Let us be your trusted choice for a brighter, more confident smile. We’re here to deliver the safe and effective care that you deserve!
- Phone: 226-884-0993
- Online Booking
- Address: 9 Southdale Rd East #6, London, ON N6C 6B4
- Convenient location in London, Ontario
New patients welcome!