Periodontic Services

A periodontal diagnosis is a targeted evaluation of the health of a patient’s gums and the bone supporting the teeth. During this assessment, Dr. Nelson or his hygiene team measures the depth of the pockets between the teeth and gums using a small probe, notes any areas of bleeding, recession, or bone loss visible on X-rays, and evaluates the overall pattern of gum tissue around each tooth. While a standard exam includes a general check of gum health, a formal periodontal evaluation goes deeper, producing a comprehensive picture of where disease may be present and how advanced it is. This information drives the treatment plan and determines whether a routine cleaning or a more intensive deep cleaning is the appropriate next step.

A regular professional cleaning, called a prophylaxis, removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth at and just below the gum line and is appropriate for patients with healthy gums or very early-stage gum concerns. A deep cleaning, clinically known as scaling and root planing, is a more involved procedure designed for patients with active gum disease. It removes bacterial deposits from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces of the teeth so that gum tissue can reattach and heal. A deep cleaning is typically performed in two appointments, treating one side of the mouth at a time, and may be done with local anesthetic for patient comfort.

Most patients find that a deep cleaning is very manageable, particularly with the local anesthesia Dr. Nelson’s team uses to keep the area comfortable during treatment. Some tenderness or sensitivity in the gums for a few days following the procedure is normal and typically resolves on its own. Dr. Nelson’s team will provide aftercare guidance and is always available to address any concerns during the healing period.

Many people with gum disease experience no pain at all, which is why professional screening is so important. Some early warning signs include gums that bleed when brushing or flossing, gums that appear red or swollen, persistent bad breath, or gums that have begun to pull away from the teeth. In more advanced cases, patients may notice loose teeth or changes in how their bite feels. If any of these signs are present, scheduling an evaluation with Dr. Nelson as soon as possible is strongly recommended.

For many patients, scaling and root planing brings gum disease under control and is followed by a periodontal maintenance schedule rather than standard twice-yearly cleanings. Periodontal maintenance visits typically occur every three to four months and are designed to keep bacterial levels low and monitor the gum pockets to ensure the disease does not progress. The frequency can be adjusted over time based on how well the tissue responds and how stable the patient’s gum health remains. Staying consistent with these visits is one of the most important factors in long-term success.

Yes, and the research on this connection is well established. Chronic gum disease creates a persistent inflammatory response in the body that has been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, poorly controlled blood sugar in patients with Type 2 diabetes, and complications during pregnancy. Treating gum disease does not eliminate these systemic risks on its own, but reducing chronic oral inflammation is considered an important part of overall health management. Dr. Nelson takes this connection seriously and communicates findings with a patient’s physician when appropriate.

A periodontal evaluation is included as part of every comprehensive exam at the practice. For patients who require a deep cleaning, the cost depends on the number of areas being treated and the extent of the disease. Most PPO dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for scaling and root planing when it is diagnosed as medically necessary. The practice also offers CareCredit financing for patients who prefer a flexible payment option. Dr. Nelson’s team will review all costs and coverage details before any treatment begins.