The gum-health program
What happens when your gums need more than a regular cleaning
The program is for adults whose dentist or hygienist has said they have gum disease, or who want to know where their gums stand.
Gum disease starts when plaque and tartar stay along the gum line. Early on, gums are red and may bleed. If it goes on, they can pull away from the teeth and the bone that holds the teeth can wear down. Most of this happens quietly, with little you can feel, which is why we measure.
Led by your hygienist, reviewed by your dentist
Measurements written down at each visit
No promise of an outcome: results vary
Step by step
From the first exam to maintenance
The number of visits depends on your measurements. This is the usual order.
- 01
Step 1: An exam and measurements
The hygienist measures the gums around every tooth and the dentist reviews them with your X-rays, if you need X-rays. You hear what was found in plain words.
- 02
Step 2: Your plan, in writing
The dentist writes down what is recommended, the other choices, what waiting would mean and what each visit costs, before any treatment starts.
- 03
Step 3: The deep cleaning
Often two visits, one side of the mouth each, with numbing. The hygienist cleans below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces.
- 04
Step 4: A check a few weeks later
We measure again and the dentist tells you what changed, and what did not.
- 05
Step 5: Maintenance visits
Measurements, a cleaning above and below the gum line and a look at your home care, at the interval your dentist sets.
Honestly
What the program can and can't do
What it does
It removes the plaque and tartar that irritate the gums, and it tracks your gums with measurements so a change shows early.
What it can't do
It can't bring back bone that is already gone or make gums that pulled back grow again. Results vary from person to person.
When you need another office
Some cases need surgery or other care this office doesn't provide. Your dentist tells you, and sends your records with your permission.
The program
Questions about gum care
How do I know if I have gum disease?
Only an exam can tell you. Bleeding gums, bad breath that doesn't go away, gums that look pulled back or teeth that feel loose are reasons to ask. Many people have none of these at first.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on your measurements. A deep cleaning is often two visits, followed by a check a few weeks later and then maintenance visits. Your plan says what your visits will be.
Do I need a deep cleaning if my teeth look fine?
Not always. The exam decides. If the gum measurements are in a healthy range, a regular cleaning is what your dentist will recommend.
Will I still need regular cleanings?
After a deep cleaning, maintenance visits usually take their place. Your dentist tells you if you can return to regular cleanings.
Does my plan cover a deep cleaning?
Many plans cover it differently from a routine cleaning, and some limit how many areas they pay for. We check with your plan, give you an estimate in writing and you decide. See how fees work.
What does it cost?
It depends on your measurements, the number of areas that need cleaning and your plan. We give you a written estimate before treatment, and we don't print prices on this site.
Ask about the gum-health program
Request a visit and the front desk will call with a time. Your first visit starts with an exam and your measurements.