Periodontal Procedures
Scaling & Root Planing
in Bethesda
Scaling & Root Planing for Bethesda residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Procedures
Scaling & Root Planing in Bethesda
Residents of Bethesda, an affluent Montgomery County community just across the DC line, known for its thriving restaurant scene and the National Institutes of Health, now have convenient access to expert scaling & root planing care at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in nearby Washington DC. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and bacterial toxins from below the gum line and smooths the tooth root surfaces to promote gum reattachment.
We welcome patients from Bethesda and surrounding areas to our Washington DC office, conveniently located about 15 minutes away. This is often the first line of treatment for periodontal disease. By thoroughly cleaning the root surfaces, scaling and root planing allows the gum tissue to heal and reattach to the teeth, reducing pocket depths.
Why Precision Periodontics
Board-certified periodontists serving Bethesda.
What sets Precision Periodontics apart for Bethesda residents is our team of six board-certified periodontists, each bringing unique expertise and a shared commitment to clinical excellence. Our periodontal team uses ultrasonic instruments and hand scalers to meticulously clean each tooth surface. Local anesthesia ensures comfort, and follow-up visits confirm healing and determine if additional treatment is needed.
If you are in Bethesda and ready to explore your scaling & root planing options, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Our Washington DC office is just 15 minutes away, and our team is here to answer your questions and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Contact us today at (202) 296-3360 or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Scaling & Root Planing FAQ for Bethesda Patients
What is scaling and root planing and how is it different from a regular cleaning?
Scaling and root planing (also called deep cleaning) is a non-surgical periodontal therapy that goes below the gumline to remove tartar (calculus) and bacterial toxins from root surfaces. It also smooths rough root surfaces to help gums reattach to the teeth. A regular cleaning only addresses deposits above and slightly below the gumline.
Is scaling and root planing painful?
Local anesthesia is used to ensure comfort during the procedure. Most patients feel pressure but no pain during treatment. Mild sensitivity and soreness in the gums is common for a few days afterward. Over-the-counter pain relievers and warm salt-water rinses help manage post-treatment discomfort.
How many appointments does scaling and root planing require?
Treatment is typically completed in two visits, with one half of the mouth treated per appointment. Each visit takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. A follow-up evaluation four to six weeks later assesses tissue healing, pocket depth improvement, and whether additional treatment such as periodontal surgery is needed.
Can scaling and root planing reverse gum disease?
When combined with excellent home care, scaling and root planing can successfully treat early to moderate periodontitis by reducing pocket depths and bacterial load. While it cannot regenerate lost bone, it creates conditions for the gums to tighten around teeth and halt disease progression. Regular periodontal maintenance is essential to maintain these results.
Getting Here
Directions from Bethesda to Our Washington, DC Office
Our Washington, DC office is approximately 15 minutes from Bethesda, near landmarks such as National Institutes of Health, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and Bethesda Row.
Driving Directions: Take Wisconsin Avenue (Route 355) south through Friendship Heights into DC. Turn left on M Street NW and continue east to our office at 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500.
Washington, DC: 2311 M Street NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20037
(202) 296-3360Request An Appointment
Let us help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
Contact us with any questions or to schedule a scaling & root planing consultation at our Washington, DC office. We look forward to welcoming you.