Periodontal Procedures
Scaling & Root Planing
in Lorton
Scaling & Root Planing for Lorton residents at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
Periodontal Procedures
Scaling & Root Planing in Lorton
Residents of Lorton, a growing southern Fairfax County community near the Occoquan River and the Workhouse Arts Center, now have convenient access to expert scaling & root planing care at Precision Periodontics & Implant Dentistry in nearby Alexandria. 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 Lorton and surrounding areas to our Alexandria office, conveniently located about 20 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 Lorton.
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. Our team includes six board-certified periodontists — Drs. Zalewsky, Alani, Artis, Daru, Lakkis, and Ganesh — giving Lorton patients access to a depth of expertise unmatched in the DC metro area.
Your journey to improved periodontal health starts with a single call. Lorton residents can reach our Alexandria office at (703) 823-2422 or request a consultation online. Our 20-minute proximity from Lorton makes expert scaling & root planing care genuinely accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Scaling & Root Planing FAQ for Lorton 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 Lorton to Our Alexandria, VA Office
Our Alexandria, VA office is approximately 20 minutes from Lorton, near landmarks such as Workhouse Arts Center, Laurel Hill, and Mason Neck State Park.
Driving Directions: Take I-95 North to the Franconia-Springfield area. Exit at Franconia Road and head east to Kenmore Avenue. Our Alexandria office is at 4660 Kenmore Avenue, Suite 300.
Alexandria, VA: 4660 Kenmore Avenue, Suite 300 & 312, Alexandria, VA 22304
Request 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 Alexandria office. We look forward to welcoming you.