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Scale & Root Planing
Washington DC

Scale and Root Planing

Scaling is the process of the removal of damaging plaque and calculus on the enamel surface of your teeth. Root planing is taking that process deeper to smoothing out your teeth’s roots. By smoothing the root, healing will be facilitated and the likelihood of additional bacteria developing will be significantly reduced.

Scaling and root planing is a common procedure is you are suffering from periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the result of the inflammation of the soft tissue as a result of the bacteria present in the plaque. If left untreated long enough periodontal disease can result in the deterioration of the jawbone and eventual loss of the tooth.

Our professional team at DC Dental Spa is experienced with deep teeth cleaning and the scaling and root planing process. Our state-of-the-art technology and friendly atmosphere will help you address this problem quickly. Call 202-333-9282 for an initial consultation and let us get rid of that nasty plaque and return your teeth and gums to their natural health.

If you have been diagnosed with a periodontal disease, we will schedule a deep cleaning followed by a scaling and root planing procedure. During the scaling and root planing procedure, the plaque and calculus will be removed which then allows the gums to heal and the pockets around the teeth that have developed to shrink. Periodontal therapy refers to a range of surgical and non-surgical techniques that are designed to address periodontal disease, which present as infection or inflammation of the gums and can result in jawbone deterioration. Scaling and root planing can be a wonderful option for you if you are looking for a long-term solution for improving the health and aesthetic appearance of your smile.

The Types of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive problem that can gradually increase in severity. Most patients who develop periodontal disease do so in the following order:

  • Gingivitis: The first stage of periodontitis, gingivitis typically develops due to bacterial plaque that builds up next to the gums. The symptoms for gingivitis are sensitive gums that are red, puffy, and bleed easily. This stage can be easily reversed with proper cleaning and improved oral health care, but if it is not addressed quickly, it can quickly develop into the next stage.
  • Early Periodontitis: If left untreated, early periodontitis is caused by the continued build-up of bacterial plaque. Early periodontitis has the same symptoms as gingivitis, just more severe. The gums will become painful and even more sensitive and brushing and flossing will result in the gums bleeding excessively. Unlike gingivitis, early periodontitis will require more intensive interventions.
  • Advanced Periodontitis: When bacteria, plaque, and toxins have developed to the point that your gum tissue is being destroyed, you have now progressed to advanced periodontitis. If you have progressed to this point small pockets have developed between your gums and teeth, which add to the problem as they act as breeding grounds for additional bacteria to grow. Because of these additional bacteria, these pockets expand which then cause the gums to recede. If left untreated, these recessions can result in bone loss.

Benefits of Scaling & Root Planing

In addition to improving your smile, a professional dental cleaning at DC Dental Spa will also improve your overall health. Benefits of consistent dental cleanings include the following:

  • Prevent Cavities: Plaque that forms on your teeth will inevitably begin to destroy the enamel. Plaque is the leading cause of decay, and because cavities left untreated can literally increase the likelihood of needing a tooth extraction, by simply scheduling a deep cleaning to remove this plaque is one of the best ways you can preserve and maintain good oral health.
  • Prevents Halitosis: If you are suffering from periodontal or other oral health issues you can commonly develop issues related to bad breath. One of the benefits to having a deep cleaning is the elimination of this issue.
  • Prevents Gum Disease: No build-up of plaque, no inflammation of the gums. Once again, regular deep cleaning and scaling prevents gum disease from developing.
  • Can Reduce Likelihood of a Heart Attack or Stroke: The bacteria that collects in your mouth due to periodontitis can also enter your bloodstream and then increase your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Research has proven that if you have gum disease you are almost twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack. You are also at a significantly higher risk of having a stroke.
  • Reduces risk of Diabetes: There is also a direct correlation between gum disease and diabetes. If you have diabetes you are more vulnerable to developing gum disease. People who have gum disease are more likely to have issues regulating their blood glucose levels, which can result in developing diabetes.

You Proper Oral Hygiene will extend the Longevity of The Scaling and Root Planing

To continue enjoying the benefits of your scaling and root planing procedure, be sure to practice the following good oral hygiene habits every day.

  • Brush twice daily- Twice a day at a minimum and also practice proper brushing technique. In addition to brushing regularly for two minutes each time, it is also important to brush effectively. Our staff at DC Dental Spa will be happy to answer any questions you may have about proper brushing techniques.
  • Floss daily- If you are someone who does not care to floss, you may want to consider some alternatives, like interdental brushes or floss picks.
  • Be mindful of your diet- One of the easiest ways you can prevent dental problems from developing is to avoid foods that are either full of sugar or high in starch. If you do must drink sodas or sugary beverages, consider using a straw to limit the exposure of sugar to your teeth. It is also advantageous to swish your mouth with water following your meals. By doing this you can dislodge food remnants that can create problems.
  • Schedule regular dental exams- Unchecked dental issues can cascade into additional problems and the progression of decay. Therefore, it is so important to be preventative and visit us every six months. By having us provide a deep cleaning for your teeth and diagnosing any potential issues before they progress, these regular checkups can be critical to maintaining your oral health.

High Quality Care You Can Trust

At DC Dental Spa our downtown office strives to accommodate your busy schedule. Our entire staff prides ourselves in developing strong and lasting relationships with each of our patients. We appreciate the value in the trust that our patients place in us. We are quite deliberate about exercising preventative overall dental health and delivering the enjoyment that comes with your healthy smile. Visit us today at DC Dental Spa, 730 24th St. NW, Suite 9, Washington, DC, 20037, or call 202-333-9282 for an evaluation and consultation to begin your oral health care program.

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