Scaling and Root Planing in Washington, D.C.

If you have developed symptoms of gum (periodontal) disease, a regular cleaning might not be sufficient enough. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is typically treated with scaling and root planing (SRP). This is a simple procedure performed by Dr. Kenneth Ingber and his team of dental professionals to help eliminate periodontal disease by removing built-up plaque and tartar from the under the gumline. Using special tools, an SRP treatment at Ingber Dental cleans under the gumline, then smoothes the teeth to prevent future buildup. If you are concerned about your gums, learn more about SRP at Ingber Dental in Washington, D.C.

During your dental exam, the depth of your gum pockets will be assessed. If the pockets, also known as sulcus, are greater than three millimeters, a scaling and root planing treatment could be recommended. SRP can help to reduce the size of your gum pockets so plaque and bacteria cannot collect in this area, which leads to the very first stage of gum disease (gingivitis). Some of the early symptoms of periodontal disease are loose teeth, as well as gums that are are tender, swollen, bleed easily, appear red, or have begun to recede. If periodontal disease is diagnosed at the onset, one or more SRP therapies can improve symptoms; however, if gum disease has progressed to later stages (periodontitis or advanced periodontitis), then you may require more extensive therapies.

Scaling and root planing is a deep periodontal cleaning that can be carried out in our office with local anesthesia to numb the areas being treated. We may also recommend one of our sedation techniques if you feel stressed about having this procedure. A scaling instrument will then be used to clean out built-up plaque and tartar in your gum pockets. The outside of the tooth will then be smoothed and planed to reduce the number of areas where plaque and tartar can become trapped in order to prevent future buildup.

After your SRP treatment, you may have increased gum and tooth sensitivity, as well as some numbness from the local anesthetic. We may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate any remaining bacteria from your gums. You should adhere to a good oral care routine at home, including proper brushing and flossing, to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. You also should schedule annual dental exams so the health of your gums and teeth can be assessed, as well as bi-annual appointments to have your mouth professionally cleaned. Depending on the original condition of your gums and your home care after an SRP treatment, you may need several more SRP treatments to totally restore your gums.

Scaling and root planing is a common procedure for the treatment of gum disease that is generally covered in part by dental insurance. Our team can contact your carrier to find out your coverage and personal costs. If you do not have dental insurance, Ingber Dental accepts numerous payment methods, including medical financing that can be explained during your consultation.

Periodontal disease can become painful and dangerous to your health so if you are experiencing symptoms, then please schedule an exam at our office in Washington, D.C. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is normally treated with a simple scaling and root planing procedure at Ingber Dental. Please contact us to schedule an appointment or to get more information.