This is the removal of chalky hard deposits of tartar from around the base of a tooth. If left, the ledges formed make it harder for you to clean your teeth effectively. If your gums are not cleaned well and regularly there is an increased risk of gum disease.
Sometimes, extensive cleaning is required with the use of local anaesthetic where there is a considerable build up of tartar below the gum line.
There is more and more evidence linking long term gum disease to other systemic problems such as heart disease, so it is very important to keep these tissues healthy.