What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a deposit that forms again on the teeth and can be removed with a suitable hygiene routine. When part of it mineralises, it becomes tartar and stays attached to the tooth surface.
Tartar can sit above or below the edge of the gum. Its quantity and location are not the same for everyone.
What happens during the appointment?
The hygienist looks at the deposits and the gums, then removes the tartar with the appropriate instruments. She can also clean some surface staining and show how to reach the difficult areas.
Mention any sensitivity during the treatment. The procedure can be adjusted according to the gums and the amount of deposits.
How often should scaling be planned?
There is no interval that fits everyone. The frequency depends on how fast tartar comes back, the state of the gums and the treatments already carried out.
After the check, the hygienist tells you when to come back. Scaling completes the daily routine but does not replace it.
Would you like to book a scaling?
The appointment removes the deposits and checks the gums.
The practice plans short videos to explain the main treatments. This one will be added once it has been filmed. [VIDEO TO BE CONFIRMED]
In practice
- Appointments
- Book online or call 022 320 19 19. You do not need to know the name of the treatment, just say what brings you. Appointment length: [DURATION TO BE CONFIRMED].
- Estimate and funding
- In Switzerland, most dental care is not covered by basic health insurance (LAMal/KVG). When a treatment is proposed, a written estimate is given to you before starting. [PAYMENT AND INVOICING TERMS TO BE CONFIRMED]
- Accident
- If the treatment follows an accident, it is reported to your accident insurance (LAA/UVG) or your health insurer. Mention it when booking, the team explains the declaration.
- Where
- The treatment is provided at the Meyrin practice. For Nyon, the treatments offered are still to be confirmed. [TO BE CONFIRMED]
This information helps you prepare the appointment. Only an examination can tell which treatment suits you. Additional source: SSO Geneva, dental prevention. Updated 25 August 2026.