47%
of adults have gum disease
2,000+
cleanings by Melisa
2 visits
typical SRP timeline
Regular Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning
Regular (Prophy)
- +Above the gumline only
- +For healthy mouths
- +1 visit, about 45 minutes
- +Covered 100% by most PPOs
Deep (SRP)
- –Below the gumline too
- –For gum disease
- –Usually 2 visits
- –Covered 50-80% by most PPOs
Signs You Might Need One
Haven't seen a dentist in over a year
Gums bleed when you brush or floss
Chronic bad breath that won't go away
Gums look red, swollen, or have pulled back
Teeth feel loose or shifted
Dentist measures gum pockets deeper than 4mm
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The good news: caught early, it's completely treatable.
What Happens During a Deep Cleaning
We numb the area if you want (totally optional for most patients)
Melisa uses fine instruments and ultrasonic tools to remove tartar below the gumline
She smooths the root surfaces so gums can reattach cleanly
Usually done in two visits, one side of the mouth at a time
You go home with instructions and often a follow-up in 3 months
Why Melisa's Cleanings Feel Different
Light hand, no digging or rushing
Explains every step before she does it
Adjusts pressure and technique to your comfort
2,000+ cleanings and counting at our Richardson office
If your last cleaning was rough, tell us. We will slow down, numb more, or split the visit. You should never dread a cleaning.
The Cost of Waiting
Deep Cleaning Now
- +Stops gum disease in its tracks
- +Covered by most PPO plans
- +Typically $800-$1,200 (often 50-80% covered)
- +Saves your teeth and bone
Wait 2-3 Years
- –Bone loss becomes permanent
- –Teeth loosen and shift
- –Leads to extractions and implants
- –$4,000+ per implant to replace a tooth
Not sure if you need one? We measure your gums at every new patient visit and tell you exactly what's needed. See our cleaning services or book an appointment and we'll take it from there.