Reviewed by Dr. Adel Elbaz, DDS, general dentist · Last reviewed
Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) in London, Ontario
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning below the gum line. It’s the main treatment for periodontitis, the stage of gum disease where bacteria and tartar have spread under the gums and started to damage the bone that holds your teeth.
A regular cleaning works on the teeth above and just under the gum line. A deep cleaning goes further, into the pockets that form when gums pull away from the teeth, so the gums can heal and tighten back around the teeth.
Do you need a deep cleaning?
We recommend scaling and root planing when your check-up shows:
- pockets deeper than about 4 millimetres between the teeth and gums
- bleeding from the bottom of those pockets
- tartar below the gum line on x-rays or during the exam
- bone loss around the teeth on digital x-rays
You might notice gums that bleed, look red or swollen, have pulled back, or bad breath that doesn’t go away. Many people notice nothing at all, which is why we measure your gums at regular check-ups.
Scaling vs root planing
- Scaling removes plaque and hardened tartar from the tooth and root surfaces, all the way to the bottom of each pocket.
- Root planing smooths the root surfaces so bacteria have a harder time sticking, and the gum can reattach to the tooth.
We use a combination of ultrasonic instruments, which break up larger deposits with gentle vibration and a water spray, and fine hand instruments for the final, detailed cleaning.
What to expect
- Measuring and planning. We chart the pocket depths around every tooth so we can compare them after treatment.
- Freezing. We numb the area being treated, so the cleaning is comfortable.
- One section at a time. Deep cleaning is usually done one or two quarters of the mouth per visit, often over two to four appointments.
- Extra help where needed. For pockets that are slow to heal, we may place an antibiotic directly into the pocket.
- Re-check. About four to six weeks later, we measure the pockets again to see how your gums have responded.
If you’re nervous, ask about laughing gas or other sedation options.
After treatment
- your gums may be tender for a few days; over-the-counter pain relief usually helps
- teeth can be sensitive to cold for a week or two as the gums tighten; a sensitivity toothpaste helps
- rinse with warm salt water and keep brushing gently
- you may notice small gaps between teeth as swollen gums shrink back; that’s a sign of healing
Keeping gum disease under control
Gum disease can be controlled but tends to return if plaque builds up again. After a deep cleaning, most people need maintenance cleanings every three to four months. At each visit we clean below the gum line and re-measure the pockets.
At home:
- brush twice a day, angling the brush toward the gum line
- clean between your teeth every day with floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser
- stop smoking, the single biggest help for healing gums
- if you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar under control helps your gums too
If pockets stay deep despite good care, we’ll talk about further periodontal treatment, including laser-assisted care or grafting, or referral to a gum specialist.
Cost and coverage
Scaling and root planing is billed in time units. Most dental insurance plans cover it, usually with a yearly limit on units, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) covers it too. Our fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide, and we check your coverage and tell you the cost before we start.
Common questions
Does a deep cleaning hurt?
The area is frozen, so most people feel pressure and vibration rather than pain. Gums may be sore for a few days afterwards.
Will my teeth get loose after a deep cleaning?
No. Teeth that were loose because of inflamed gums often feel firmer once the gums heal. Swelling going down can make gaps between teeth more visible.
Why not just do a regular cleaning?
A regular cleaning doesn’t reach the bottom of deep pockets. Leaving tartar there lets gum disease continue to destroy bone.
How long does it take?
Usually two to four visits of about an hour, depending on how many areas need treatment.
Book a gum check in London
Bleeding or receding gums? We’re open six days a week, with evening appointments until 9 pm on weekdays. Book online or call 226-884-2573.
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