Scaling and Root Planing in Alexandria

Clean, Healthy Teeth from Our Alexandria Dentist

Are you experiencing swollen, bleeding gums or persistent bad breath? These could be signs of gum disease, a condition that affects millions of Americans. Fortunately, scaling and root planing, a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure, can restore your gum health and prevent further complications.

If you’re suffering from early symptoms of gum disease, our dentist near you can help you stop it in its tracks. We’re currently accepting new patients at MAs Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Contact our dental office in Alexandria by calling (703) 672-0664 to schedule a deep cleaning appointment.

What Is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing is a dental deep cleaning procedure designed to treat gum disease, specifically periodontitis and gingivitis. Unlike a standard dental cleaning, this non-surgical treatment targets plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots to promote healing.

Scaling: Removes plaque and tartar (hardened calculus) from the tooth surfaces, including areas below the gumline that regular brushing can’t reach.
Root Planing: Smooths the tooth roots to eliminate rough spots where bacteria thrive, helping gums reattach to the teeth.

Why Is Scaling and Root Planing Necessary?

Gum disease starts with plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar if not removed. Left untreated, it can lead to:

Gingivitis: Early-stage gum disease with symptoms like redness and bleeding.
Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease that damages gums, bone, and supporting structures, potentially leading to tooth loss.
Systemic health issues: Research links gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems.

Let’s fight gum disease! Contact our Alexandria dentist today at (703) 672-0664 to get started.

How Do Dentists Diagnose the Need for Scaling and Root Planing?

During your dental exam, our dentist near you will:

Measure Pocket Depths: Using a periodontal probe, they measure the space between your gums and teeth. Healthy pockets are 1 to 3 mm deep; deeper pockets (4 mm or more) indicate gum disease.
Take X-rays: To assess bone loss or hidden tartar.
Evaluate Symptoms: Review your oral health history and symptoms.

The Scaling and Root Planing Procedure

Consultation and Assessment

Dr. Janice Dionisio will review your oral health, discuss symptoms, and explain the procedure. We may take X-rays or measure pocket depths to determine the extent of your gum disease.

Each session typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. If only one quadrant of the mouth is treated at a time, multiple appointments may be needed. Mild cases may be completed in a single visit.

Dental Sedation

To ensure comfort, a local anesthetic is applied to numb the gums and surrounding tissues. For anxious patients, sedation options like nitrous oxide may be available.

Scaling

Using specialized tools (manual scalers or ultrasonic instruments), our dentist or hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Ultrasonic scalers use vibrations and water to break up tartar efficiently.

Root Planing

Our dentist smooths the tooth roots to remove bacterial toxins and rough spots. This step encourages gums to heal and reattach to the teeth, reducing pocket depths.

Post-Treatment Care

After your deep dental cleaning, Dr. Janice Dionisio may apply antimicrobial agents or prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. They’ll provide aftercare instructions to promote proper healing. If you have any questions while recovering, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist.

Do you need a deep cleaning appointment? Contact our dental office near you today by calling (703) 672-0664.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing offers numerous benefits for your oral and overall health, including:

Stops Gum Disease Progression: Removes bacteria and tartar to prevent further damage.
Reduces Inflammation: Soothes swollen, bleeding gums for improved comfort.
Prevents Tooth Loss: Strengthens gum attachment to keep teeth secure.
Improves Breath: Eliminates bacteria causing bad breath.
Enhances Overall Health: Lowers the risk of systemic conditions linked to gum disease.
Cost-Effective: A non-surgical alternative to more invasive periodontal treatments.

Who Needs a Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleanings are recommended for individuals with signs of gum disease. You may need this treatment if you experience:

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Swollen, red, or tender gums
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
Receding gums or teeth that appear longer
Loose or shifting teeth
Deep pockets (spaces) between teeth and gums, typically measured during a dental exam

If you need a deep teeth cleaning, our dentist in Alexandria will let you know, and we will get you scheduled as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover scaling and root planing?

Many dental insurance plans cover scaling and root planing if it’s medically necessary. Check with your provider or contact our office for assistance.

How often do I need scaling and root planing?

Most patients need it only once to treat active periodontal disease. Regular periodontal maintenance cleanings afterward will help keep gums healthy.

Can a scaling and root planing treatment cure periodontal disease?

Scaling and root planing can help to manage periodontal disease, but it’s not a cure. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and keep up with regular dental visits to reduce the risk of periodontal disease recurrence.

Reverse Your Periodontal Disease With Our Alexandria Dentist

Periodontal disease doesn’t have to control your life. Scaling and root planing is a proven, non-surgical solution to restore your gum health, protect your teeth, and boost your confidence. At MAs Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with professional care and a commitment to your comfort.

Whether you need routine dental cleanings, restorative dentistry, or cosmetic dental work, we’ve got what you need. Contact one of the best dentists near you today by calling (703) 672-0664.