Deep cleaning • Gum health • Long-term stability

Scaling & Root Planing in Toronto

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical deep cleaning that removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to promote gum reattachment and reduce inflammation. It is the gold-standard first-line treatment for gum disease when pockets are deeper than normal or bleeding persists.

Call MyDentist@Pharmacy Call MyDentist@Middlefield Benefits
Reduces bleeding and inflammation
Targets bacteria below the gumline
Supports healthier gum attachment

Benefits of scaling and root planing

This deep cleaning reduces bacterial load, calms gum inflammation, and helps pockets shrink—creating a healthier foundation for your teeth and smile.

Stops bleeding & tenderness

  • Reduces gum irritation
  • Eliminates infection source
  • Fresher breath & taste

Promotes gum reattachment

  • Smoothes roots for healing
  • Helps pockets shrink
  • Stabilizes gumline

Prevents progression

  • Reduces bone loss risk
  • Avoids advanced periodontitis
  • Protects natural teeth

Long-term gum stability

  • Custom maintenance plan
  • Healthier gum attachment
  • Confident daily comfort

When scaling and root planing is recommended

This treatment is ideal when standard cleanings are no longer enough—typically when pockets exceed 4 mm, bleeding persists, or tartar accumulates below the gumline.

Persistent bleeding

Bleeding during brushing/flossing or spontaneously—classic sign of active inflammation below the gums.

  • Blood on floss/toothbrush
  • Red, swollen gum tissue
  • Gums tender to pressure

Deeper gum pockets

Pockets ≥5 mm trap bacteria and make home cleaning ineffective—measured during exam.

  • Pockets beyond normal range
  • Hard-to-reach buildup
  • Recurring inflammation

Subgingival tartar

Hard calculus below the gumline irritates tissues and prevents natural healing.

  • Rough root surfaces
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Recurring gum tenderness

Early periodontitis

When inflammation has started to affect supporting structures—deep cleaning can halt progression.

  • Mild bone loss signs
  • Gum recession beginning
  • Prevent further damage
Luxury detail that matters
The most effective deep cleanings are thorough and gentle. Precise scaling, root smoothing, and tailored aftercare instructions help gums heal faster and stay healthier long-term.

What to expect during scaling & root planing

Treatment is comfortable and precise—often done in sections. Numbing is available, and we focus on thorough cleaning while keeping your experience relaxed.

01
Gum evaluation
Measure pockets, check bleeding, identify areas needing deeper attention.
02
Comfort preparation
Local numbing or topical anesthetic for a calm, pain-free experience.
03
Scaling & root planing
Remove tartar below gums; smooth roots to discourage bacteria and aid healing.
04
Aftercare & follow-up
Review healing instructions; schedule re-evaluation and maintenance visits.

Why deep cleaning matters for gum health

Scaling and root planing removes the bacterial film that standard brushing can’t reach—helping gums heal, pockets shrink, and preventing progression to advanced gum disease.

Reduces bleeding
Calmer, healthier gums
Shrinks pockets
Easier home cleaning
Prevents bone loss
Protects tooth support
Long-term stability
Fewer future problems
How long does healing take
Most patients feel improvement within days to weeks. Full gum reattachment and pocket reduction can take 4–6 weeks, with re-evaluation to confirm progress.
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Aftercare tips after scaling & root planing

Gentle care during healing helps your gums recover faster and keeps results stable.

1
Manage mild sensitivity
Use desensitizing toothpaste; avoid very hot/cold foods for a few days.
2
Gentle hygiene
Soft brushing, gentle flossing; resume normal routine as comfort allows.
3
Follow-up visit
Return in 4–6 weeks to check healing and pocket reduction.
4
Maintenance commitment
Regular periodontal cleanings prevent re-accumulation and keep gums healthy.

Scaling & root planing FAQ

Clear answers about comfort, healing, results, and ongoing care.

How is deep cleaning different from a regular cleaning
Regular cleanings remove plaque/tartar above the gumline. Scaling & root planing treats below the gums—removing deeper buildup and smoothing roots to help gums heal.
Will I be numb during scaling and root planing
Numbing is commonly used for comfort—especially in deeper or more sensitive areas. Many patients feel relaxed during the procedure.
How many appointments do I need
Often 1–4 visits depending on the number of quadrants treated and pocket severity. We usually do one or two quadrants per session for comfort.
What should I expect after deep cleaning
Mild soreness, slight bleeding, or temporary sensitivity for a few days. Gums usually feel calmer within 1–2 weeks as inflammation decreases.
Can scaling and root planing reverse gum disease
It can reverse early gingivitis and significantly improve mild–moderate periodontitis. Advanced cases are managed long-term with maintenance to prevent worsening.
How can I keep results long-term
Excellent home hygiene (soft brushing, daily flossing/interdental cleaning), regular periodontal maintenance visits, and avoiding smoking—tobacco greatly worsens gum disease.

Calmer gums start with a deep clean

Call your preferred location to book scaling and root planing.

Call MyDentist@Middlefield Call MyDentist@Pharmacy See Process

A clinical exam and pocket measurements confirm whether deep cleaning is the right step for your gums.

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