Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing — often called a 'deep cleaning' — is the most effective non-surgical treatment for active gum disease. While a routine cleaning addresses above and just below the gumline, scaling and root planing reaches deep into gum pockets to remove bacterial deposits from root surfaces, allowing inflamed gum tissue to heal and reattach.
How It Works
Local Anesthesia
One or two quadrants of the mouth are numbed per appointment to ensure complete comfort during the deep cleaning.
Scaling
Specialized instruments remove plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from all tooth surfaces and from below the gumline — including deposits deep in the gum pockets.
Root Planing
Root surfaces are carefully smoothed (planed) to remove residual toxins and create a clean surface that gum tissue can reattach to.
Irrigation
The pockets are flushed with an antimicrobial rinse to reduce bacterial load and promote healing.
Reassessment Appointment
4–8 weeks later, we remeasure your pocket depths to evaluate healing and plan any further treatment needed.
Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing
- Most effective first-line treatment for periodontitis
- Removes root-surface deposits not reachable in routine cleaning
- Allows infected gum tissue to heal and reattach
- Reduces gum pocket depths
- Prevents further bone loss
- Non-surgical — no cutting or stitches required
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Basi and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Book a ConsultationOr call 780-540-0124Scaling & Root Planing FAQs
Q.Is scaling and root planing different from a regular cleaning?
Yes. A routine cleaning cleans the crown of the tooth and just below the gumline. Scaling and root planing goes much deeper — cleaning the root surfaces inside gum pockets to remove disease-causing deposits.
Q.How many appointments does it take?
Typically 2–4 appointments, treating one or two quadrants per visit. This allows adequate time for each area and keeps you comfortable.
Q.How will I feel afterward?
Some tenderness and gum sensitivity are normal for a few days. Your gums may also appear to recede slightly as swelling reduces — this is the healing response.
Q.Do I need to come back more often after treatment?
Yes. Once treated for gum disease, your maintenance schedule changes to every 3–4 months. This more frequent schedule keeps disease controlled and prevents recurrence.
Other Gum Disease Treatment Services
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