The cutting action of scaling is performed by pulling the periodontal tool blade along the surface of the tooth, from the gum line toward the top of the tooth, in order to remove plaque. The cutting motion is done by pulling the periodontal handle along its longitudinal axis by flexing the fingers, extending the wrist or supinating the forearm.The return, push motion does not involve cutting, but just repositions the cutting blade to the gum line. Changes to the tool shape that improve the coupling of the fingers to the tool may reduce the applied pinch force.