Service
Gum disease care
Care for gum disease, the infection and swelling of the tissue and bone that hold teeth, for adults whose dentist or hygienist has found deep gum pockets.
What happens
The visits, in order
Most patients need one exam visit and one to three treatment visits, plus a check about a month and a half later.
- 01
Step 1: The exam
We measure the pockets around each tooth, look at your films and talk through what we see.
- 02
Step 2: A deep cleaning
Scaling and root planing cleans below the gumline, usually one side of the mouth at a time.
- 03
Step 3: A check
About four to six weeks later we measure again to see how the gums have responded.
- 04
Step 4: Surgery, only if needed
If some pockets stay deep, we explain the surgical options and you decide. Nothing is scheduled at the exam.
Good to know
Comfort, other options and what to expect
Comfort
We numb the area with a local anesthetic before a deep cleaning or surgery. Tell us if you want a break, and ask any time how we numb and what else is available.
Other options, and waiting
The alternatives are a deep cleaning at your own dentist's office with closer follow-up, or watching and measuring. Without treatment, gum disease can keep progressing and teeth can loosen. How fast varies from person to person.
Risks and after-care
Gums can be sore and teeth sensitive for a few days. Gums can pull back as they heal, which can make teeth look longer. We explain the risks of each option before you decide, and give written after-care.
How this is billed
Some plans pay for it through dental coverage and some through medical coverage, and some do not pay at all. You get a written estimate before any treatment. There is no price on this page.
Questions
About gum disease care
Do I need surgery?
Not always. Many patients start with a deep cleaning and a re-check. We talk about surgery only if pockets stay deep, and the decision is yours.
Will I need to come back after treatment?
Usually, for gum maintenance visits at an interval we agree on. Some patients alternate them with visits to their own dentist.
Does it hurt?
We numb the area first and you can ask for a break at any time. Some soreness afterward is common, and we tell you what to expect.
Who provides it
Who provides this care
Care here is provided by periodontists: Dr. Setsuko Ikeda, Dr. Flavia Figueroa, Dr. Kian Rezaei. Their training and boards are listed on the About page.
Ask about a visit
Patients can call (413) 555-0100. Dentists can send a referral through the secure form.