Willis Family DentistryWaynesboro

General Dentistry

Periodontal (Gum) Care

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Periodontal therapy and consistent maintenance keep it quiet for life.

Signs of gum disease

Bleeding when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth are all worth an evaluation. Gum disease is often quiet in its early stages — one reason regular cleanings and exams matter.

Treating it

Treatment usually starts with a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) below the gumline to remove the plaque and tartar that’s feeding the disease. For most patients, that combined with consistent home care brings the gums back to a healthier state.

Maintenance

After active treatment, periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months keep things on track. Consistency is what stops the disease from coming back.

Get your gums evaluated

Call our Pelham Drive office to schedule a visit.

Request a Visit540-943-9703

Frequently Asked

Common questions

How is periodontal maintenance different from a regular cleaning?
A regular adult cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline on healthy gums. Periodontal maintenance goes deeper — your hygienist cleans the root surfaces inside the gum pocket, where bacteria like to hide after gum disease has been treated.
How often will I need it?
Most patients on a maintenance schedule come in every three to four months. The interval depends on your pocket depths, bleeding patterns, and how stable things have been at recent visits.
Will I be on this schedule forever?
Often, yes — periodontal disease can be controlled but not cured. Sticking to your maintenance interval is the single most important thing you can do to keep your teeth for the long term.
Does it cost more than a regular cleaning?
Yes, because more time and skill is involved. Most dental insurance covers periodontal maintenance, and Virginia Dental Club members receive a 20% discount on the procedure.

Why patients on Pelham Drive choose Willis Family Dentistry Waynesboro

Dr. Tyler Youn, DDS is calm, unhurried, and trained at University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry — and he believes the most important skill in dentistry is listening. Patients across Waynesboro, the 22980 corridor, Stuarts Draft, Fishersville, and Lyndhurst choose Willis Family Dentistry Waynesboro on Pelham Drive because every visit feels like a real conversation, not a sales pitch. We talk about cost up front, accept most major PPO insurance plans, and offer the Virginia Dental Club membership for patients without insurance — so cost is never the reason a smile waits. Open Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm at 101 Pelham Dr, Waynesboro 22980. Call 540-943-9703 or request an appointment online.