Gum Disease Treatment & Deep Cleaning: Your Guide to Healthier Gums

Dr. Chona performing scaling and root planing to treat advanced gum disease at We Care Dental in Dublin, CA

At We Care Dental in Dublin, CA, we believe your smile is more than just teeth—it’s a reflection of your overall health. Gum disease, a silent threat affecting nearly half of adults over 30, often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. But with early intervention and treatments like deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), it’s possible to halt damage and restore gum health. Dr. Chona Lardizabal and her team combine expertise with a compassionate, patient-first approach to help you reclaim control of your oral wellness.

Why Gum Health Matters More Than You Think

Gum disease isn’t just about red or bleeding gums. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bone deterioration, and even systemic health risks like heart disease and diabetes complications. The good news? With proactive care, it’s preventable and treatable.

Understanding Gum Disease: From Gingivitis to Periodontitis

  1. Gingivitis: Early inflammation caused by plaque buildup. Symptoms include redness, swelling, or bleeding during brushing.

  2. Periodontitis: Advanced infection where gums pull away from teeth, forming pockets that harbor bacteria. Without treatment, this stage destroys bone and connective tissue.

The American Dental Association emphasizes that gingivitis is reversible with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene. However, periodontitis requires specialized care—like deep cleaning—to manage.

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning: What’s the Difference?

Factor

Regular Cleaning

Deep Cleaning

Purpose

Preventive care for healthy gums

Therapeutic treatment for gum disease

Procedure

Removes plaque/tartar above the gumline

Cleans below gums (scaling) and smooths roots planing

Frequency

Every 6 months

2-4 visits, then maintenance

Anesthesia

Rarely needed

Often used for comfort

Cost

Typically covered by insurance

May require a co-pay depending on severity

Regular cleanings focus on prevention, while deep cleaning addresses active infection. Dr. Lardizabal uses 3D scans and gentle techniques to tailor treatment to your needs, ensuring you understand every step.

Why Early Gum Disease Treatment Is Critical

Ignoring gum disease can lead to:

  • Tooth loss: The leading cause of adult tooth loss isn’t cavities—it’s periodontitis.
  • Chronic inflammation: Linked to diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory issues.
  • Costlier treatments: Delaying care may require gum surgery or dental implants.

Deep cleaning stops the cycle by removing bacteria, reducing pocket depth, and promoting healing. Studies show it can lower HbA1c levels in diabetics, highlighting the mouth-body connection.

What to Expect During Deep Cleaning at We Care Dental

  1. Personalized Consultation: Dr. Lardizabal listens to your concerns, reviews X-rays/3D scans, and explains your diagnosis in plain language.
  2. Gentle Scaling & Root Planing: Using precise tools, she removes tartar from below the gums and smooths roots to prevent bacterial reattachment.
  3. Comfort-First Care: Numbing agents ensure minimal discomfort, and calming techniques ease anxiety (a specialty for our younger patients!).
  4. Follow-Up Plan: We’ll schedule maintenance cleanings and share tips to improve your home care routine.

Prevention: Your Best Defense Against Gum Disease

Diagram of essential dental care pr Practices in the prevention of gum disease.
  1. Brush & Floss Daily: Remove plaque before it hardens into tartar.
  2. Stay Consistent with Checkups: Early detection saves time, money, and discomfort.
  3. Quit Smoking: Tobacco use quadruples your risk of severe gum disease.
  4. Eat a Balanced Diet: Vitamin C and antioxidants support gum health.

Why Choose We Care Dental for Gum Disease Care?

  • Trusted Expertise: Dr. Lardizabal’s gentle touch and clear communication put even nervous patients at ease.
  • Technology Meets Compassion: 3D imaging, painless tools, and a warm team make care efficient and stress-free.
  • Your Priorities Come First: We discuss costs upfront, work with insurance, and design flexible payment plans.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Gum disease won’t resolve on its own—but you don’t have to face it alone. At We Care Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile through personalized care.

Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Chona Lardizabal today:

8935 San Ramon Rd. Dublin, CA 94568

(925) 300-9559

Let’s partner together to protect your gums, your health, and your smile.