Scaling and Root Planing in Washington DC

What is scaling and root planing? Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning treatment that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline to help reverse gum disease. At DC Dental Spa in Washington, DC, our experienced hygienists use gentle, advanced techniques to restore gum health, reduce inflammation, and prevent tooth loss, comfortably and effectively.

A Healthier Smile Starts Below the Surface

Your gums are the foundation of your smile. When they’re healthy, your entire mouth thrives. But if your gums bleed or feel tender, it could be an early sign of gum disease. We provide scaling and root planing in Washington, DC, a safe and effective treatment designed to deep-clean your gums and remove harmful buildup. This non-surgical procedure helps reverse gum disease and promotes lasting oral health, all in a comfortable, spa-like setting.

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What is Scaling and Root Planing?

Scaling and root planing, often called deep cleaning, goes beyond what a routine cleaning can achieve.

During scaling, your hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. Then, during root planing, they smooth the tooth roots so bacteria can’t easily reattach. Together, these steps allow your gums to heal naturally and reattach to your teeth.

This treatment is one of the most effective ways to fight early gum disease and prevent future oral health issues.

When You Might Need Deep Cleaning

Gum disease often begins quietly, showing only subtle signs before progressing into a more serious condition.

You might benefit from scaling and root planing if you notice:

Persistent bad breath
Red, tender, or swollen gums
Bleeding when brushing or flossing
Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
A feeling of loose or shifting teeth

If these symptoms sound familiar, our team can assess your gum health and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Benefits of Scaling and Root Planing

Healthy gums support more than just a great smile, they’re essential for total wellness. Deep cleaning offers benefits that reach far beyond the surface.

Here’s how scaling and root planing helps:

Stops gum disease and prevents it from worsening
Reduces gum inflammation and tenderness
Prevents tooth and bone loss by eliminating bacteria
Improves breath and oral freshness
Promotes healthier gum attachment for long-term stability

By treating the problem early, you can avoid more invasive procedures later.

Our Gentle, Step-by-Step Process

We know dental cleanings can feel intimidating, so we make every visit calm, comfortable, and personalized. Here’s what you can expect when you visit DC Dental Spa for deep cleaning.

Comprehensive Exam

Before treatment, we perform a full examination using digital X-rays to assess your gum and bone health. This helps us pinpoint areas of infection and tailor your cleaning to your needs.

Comfortable Deep Cleaning

Your hygienist uses advanced ultrasonic tools and precision hand instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gums. If needed, we’ll apply a numbing gel or local anesthetic for complete comfort.

Root Smoothing

We smooth rough root surfaces to prevent bacteria from returning. This step allows your gums to heal naturally and securely reattach to your teeth.

Antibacterial Rinse

After cleaning, we may apply an antibacterial rinse or medication to reduce bacteria and inflammation, speeding up the healing process.

Personalized Aftercare Plan

You’ll leave with a customized at-home care plan and follow-up recommendations to maintain your gum health.

Healing and Aftercare Tips

Here’s how to care for your mouth after scaling and root planing:

Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice daily
Floss gently to remove plaque
Rinse with a saltwater solution or mild antibacterial mouthwash
Avoid hard or sticky foods for 24 hours
Schedule regular checkups to monitor healing

We’ll guide you through every step and make sure your gums recover beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is scaling and root planing painful?

No. Most patients experience little to no discomfort. We use numbing gel or local anesthesia to ensure a smooth, pain-free visit.

How long does the procedure take?

The process usually takes one to two hours, depending on how many areas need treatment.

How often do I need deep cleaning?

Typically once for active gum treatment, followed by periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months to prevent recurrence.

What happens if I don’t treat gum disease?

Without treatment, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone damage, and even systemic issues like heart disease and diabetes complications.

Can deep cleaning reverse gum disease completely?

It can’t “cure” severe gum disease, but it can stop it from progressing and help your gums heal significantly.