Scaling can damage your teeth if you don't do the teeth scaling properly.
However when done properly the scaling should not damage your teeth.
When scaling is done correctly there should be no damage or weakening to your teeth but if not improperly then the scaling could cause damage.
Also the use of a water flosser on your teeth can remove plaque.
A water flosser can remove up to 99.9% of plaque on your teeth if you use the water flosser correctly and often enough.
You can also prevent dental plaque buildup by using a water flosser often and also using string floss and brushing your teeth 3 times per day.
A dentist can also remove severe plaque buildup that may not come off as easily at home.
I go to the dentist at least once per year and have a good dental cleaning and they remove any hard to get at plaque with ease.
It's worth the cost to me for a yearly dental cleaning as your teeth are very important and we need to keep them clean.