Which tool is used to scale the crown above the gum line?

• A. Scaler
• B. Curette
• C. Probe
• D. Polisher

Answer: (A)

Scaling the crown above the gum line is about removing calculus from the exposed tooth surfaces, i.e., supragingival scaling. The scaler is built for this purpose, using sharp, often sickle-shaped blades to effectively shear away calculus on the visible crown just above the gingiva. Curettes, by contrast, are designed for subgingival work beneath the gum line, with a rounded toe for staying under the margin and performing root planing. A probe’s main role is to measure pocket depths and assess attachment loss, not to remove calculus. The polisher is used after scaling to smooth and finish the enamel surface. So the scaler is the tool best suited for cleaning above the gum line.