What Is Scaling and Root Planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment used to treat gum disease and support healthier gums over time. It is often recommended when bacteria and plaque have built up below the gumline, where routine cleaning is no longer enough.
During treatment, we carefully remove plaque and bacteria from periodontal pockets around the teeth. The root surfaces are then smoothed to help the gums heal and reattach more effectively, making it harder for bacteria to accumulate again.
This treatment is often one of the first and most important steps in managing gum disease and protecting the long-term stability of your teeth and supporting bone. For many patients, it is followed by an ongoing periodontal maintenance to help keep the gums healthy and stable.
If you are noticing signs of gum disease or have been referred for evaluation, our team can help assess your condition and walk you through the most appropriate next steps.
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When Gum Disease Becomes More Advanced
As gum disease progresses, it can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating deeper pockets where bacteria continue to collect. Over time, this can lead to damage of the bone and supporting structures if left untreated.
In more advanced cases, periodontal surgery may be recommended to allow for deeper cleaning and more direct access to affected areas. This helps remove bacteria, reduce pocket depth, and support healthier long-term gum attachment.
Our focus is always on preserving as much natural tissue as possible while helping stabilize your oral health in a careful, predictable way.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before treatment begins, we complete a detailed assessment of your gums and review your condition clearly with you. A local anesthetic is typically used to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
You may need one or more visits depending on the extent of treatment required. We will walk you through each step so you know what to expect before, during, and after your appointment.
A Specialist Approach to Gum Health
As periodontal specialists, we focus exclusively on the structures that support your teeth. This allows us to provide a more focused level of care for gum disease treatment, including scaling and root planing, and surgical options when needed.
We also work closely with referring dental offices to ensure coordinated care and consistent follow-up throughout your treatment.
Technology and Care You Can Expect
At North Calgary Dental Specialists, we use diagnostic tools and clinical technology to support accurate assessment and treatment planning, including:
- Periodontal probing and charting for gum measurements
- Digital imaging for treatment planning and monitoring
- Careful periodontal instrumentation designed for precision and comfort
- Sterilization systems that follow strict clinical protocols
After treatment, maintenance care plays an important role in keeping your gums healthy. We will recommend a personalized follow-up schedule based on your needs to help maintain results and reduce the risk of disease returning.
Referrals Made Simple
We work closely with referring dental offices to support clear communication and coordinated periodontal care. Our referral process is designed to be quick and straightforward, allowing you to submit patient details, upload images, and share relevant clinical information in just a few steps.
Once received, our team reviews each referral carefully and follows up promptly so you know exactly where your patient is in the process. We aim to keep communication open and consistent from consultation through treatment and follow-up care.
Whether you’re sending a patient for scaling and root planing or ongoing periodontal management, we are here to support your team with reliable, responsive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal treatment used to treat gum disease. It removes plaque and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to help the gums heal and reattach more effectively.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
Most patients are kept comfortable with a local anesthetic during treatment. Some mild soreness or sensitivity after the procedure is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does the treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity of gum disease and the number of areas that need treatment. Some patients complete treatment in one visit, while others may require multiple appointments.
What can I expect after treatment?
It is normal to experience mild tenderness, slight swelling, or sensitivity as the gums heal. These symptoms typically improve within a few days. We will provide clear aftercare instructions to support healing.
Will I need more than one appointment?
In many cases, treatment is completed over multiple visits to ensure each area is thoroughly cleaned and properly managed. Your periodontist will recommend a treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Do I need ongoing maintenance after treatment?
Yes. Periodontal maintenance visits are an important part of keeping your gums healthy after treatment and helping prevent gum disease from returning.
Do I need a referral?
Many patients are referred by their general dentist, but a referral is not always required. You can contact our office directly if you are unsure about the next steps.
Can gum disease come back after treatment?
Gum disease can return if it is not properly maintained. Regular hygiene visits, good oral care at home, and follow-up periodontal care are important for long-term stability.
Come Visit Us in NE Calgary
You can find us on the corner of 96 Ave and Harvest Hills Blvd N, right beside the 7-Eleven. There’s plenty of parking available outside the clinic. You can’t miss our bright orange sign!
Our Address
Contact Information
- Phone: 403-455-5453
- Fax: 587-391-0885
- Email: info@northcds.com
Our Hours
Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 AM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Our Services
A Trusted Resource for Periodontal Care
We combine specialist expertise with personalized care for both patients and referring offices. Every interaction is handled with clarity, attention, and a one-on-one approach.
We take the time to answer questions, support treatment planning, and help every patient and office feel prioritized throughout the process.
Read What Our Patients Have to Say
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North Calgary Dental Specialists
- 225-160 96th Ave NE
- Calgary, AB T3K 6G4
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P: 403-455-5453
info@northcds.com