For scaling, there is only one way to remove calculus and plaque from the tooth surface and gingival sulcus by applying an ultrasonic scaling machine at a professional dental clinic. The first way is to apply the ultrasonic scaling head to shatter the large pieces of calculus, and then apply the sterile water attached to the scaling head to rinse out the tartar and plaque. This is why we often refer to it as scaling. Scaling is often referred to as supragingival scaling. Supragingival scaling is a professional term for the application of ultrasonic scaling machines, as well as manual instruments, i.e., manual scaling devices, but this is generally referred to as manual supragingival scaling, not scaling. For periodontal treatment, the only two types of supragingival scaling are ultrasonic scaling and manual scaling. Ultrasonic scaling is relatively more efficient and used more often, so many of us now equate scaling with supragingival scaling and rarely mention manual scaling.