Scaling & Root Planing in Downtown Toronto

Plaque is a sticky substance that adheres to the tooth structure and is teeming with bacteria. Over time, plaque becomes calcified (hardened) and at this stage, it becomes what is called calculus.

Plaque and calculus are irritants to the tissues of your mouth. The reaction of your body to the irritants and the subsequent gum inflammation, gum recession, bleeding and eventual bone loss around the teeth constitute periodontal (gum) disease.

The earliest stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis (which is reversible) and is characterized by bleeding gums, especially when one brushes and flosses. If the disease is not addressed, it will progress to periodontitis, which is far more destructive, and is characterized by further gum deterioration, bone loss, and ultimately tooth loss.

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that dentists do to clean your teeth from built-up debris. During the scaling process, your dentist removes all the plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, under your gum line, and the bottom of the pocket.

Scaling is important because it helps you maintain good oral wellness. There are lots of bacteria in your mouth and when the bacteria mixes with the sugary foods and drinks you eat, it creates plaque which eventually hardens to tartar. When you have too much plaque and tartar on your teeth, it causes many dental problems.

During a traditional dental cleaning, your dentist focuses on scraping the plaque on the surface of your teeth. They also clean the gum line to scale and polish the outer surface of the teeth. This can remove bacteria that’s coating your teeth to help you maintain good oral health. The goal of routine regular cleanings is to help you prevent cavities and infections.

You can expect a two-step procedure that involves scaling and root planing. The dentist will first perform scaling to remove all the plaque and tartar from your teeth. They focus on the surface of your teeth, as well as the roots and the bottom of the pocket.

Built-up plaque and tartar causes many dental problems, such as gum disease, gingivitis, tooth infections, and tooth decays. Scaling and root planing cleans deep into the roots of your teeth and gum to prevent the build-up of bacteria to help you prevent these problems.