Gentle, Thorough Treatment for Ames Gum Disease

Calm, caring help for gums that need attention

Bleeding gums aren’t something to ignore

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss are often the first sign of a bigger issue. Ames gum disease starts subtly and progresses quietly, sometimes for years before it causes noticeable pain. The earlier we catch it, the more options you have, and the easier treatment tends to be.

If you’ve been putting off a visit because you’re worried about what we’ll find, you’re not alone. We won’t judge or lecture. We’ll just help you get back to a healthy place at a pace that works for you.

What to expect at your gum health visit

We'll ask about any symptoms you've noticed, like bleeding gums or bad breath that won't go away.
We'll measure the small pockets between your teeth and gums to see where inflammation is active.
We'll take digital images if we need to check the bone levels below the gumline.
We'll explain what we find in clear language and show you what we're seeing.
If treatment is recommended, we'll walk you through what it involves before anything is scheduled.

Thorough, nonsurgical care for your gums

The core of our gum disease treatment is nonsurgical scaling and root planing. It’s a careful, deep cleaning that removes bacteria and hardened buildup from below the gumline, where everyday brushing can’t reach.

We combine traditional hand instruments with ultrasonic instrumentation. The ultrasonic tools use gentle vibrations and water to break up stubborn deposits efficiently, while hand instruments give us precision control in tighter spaces. Using both gives us a thorough clean while staying gentle with your gum tissue.

Depending on how advanced things are, we may recommend more frequent cleanings going forward so new buildup doesn’t form. Our goal is to help your gums return to a healthy, stable state and then keep them there.

Worried about discomfort? We’ve got you

Scaling and root planing sounds intimidating, but most patients find it more comfortable than they expected. We use local anesthesia to keep the area numb during treatment, and we pace the work so you’re never overwhelmed.

If you’re nervous, let us know. We can break the treatment across multiple visits or take breaks whenever you need. Cozy blankets, neck pillows, sunglasses, and noise-canceling headphones are always available.

Simple ways to pay

Payment worries should be the last thing on your mind. At Ames Family Dental, we offer options for everyone to access premium care without stress.

Our office works with most insurance plans and handles the filing for you
We are in network with Delta Dental Premier and are proud to be a Delta Dental Premier Provider
In-house membership plan for uninsured patients
Flexible financing options to fit your budget
Upfront estimates so you always know what to expect
We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards
Convenient and secure online payments through the Archy Payment Portal

PAY HERE

In their own words

Six stars if I could!

“This place is amazing! Ames Family Dental is a six-star! Dr. Patten is incredibly kind, thoughtful, and holistic, and I can tell he genuinely cares about his patients. As someone who values empathy and understanding, I appreciated his attentive and compassionate approach. I can’t wait to come back!”

— Lee M.

Feels like a small-town dentist

“Excellent patient care. They listened to my concerns and were very accommodating. Dr. Patten was super personable, and I would recommend this place to anyone wanting a small-town dentist feeling and environment!”

— William T.

Friendly and gentle

“I’ve been going to Ames Family Dental for a little over two years now, and it’s been nothing but fantastic. They’re so personable, and I always look forward to my next appointment. The hygienists are very good at their job, and they clean your teeth in a way that doesn’t leave your gums or teeth hurting.”

— Nathan S.

250+ 5-star reviews on Google

FAQ

What are the early signs of Ames gum disease?

The most common signs include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath, swollen or tender gums, and gums that look like they're pulling back from the teeth. Pain usually comes later, which is why regular check-ups matter. We can spot changes before they become uncomfortable.

Will scaling and root planing hurt?

We use local anesthesia during the treatment so you stay comfortable. Some patients feel mild tenderness for a day or two afterward, and your gums may be temporarily more sensitive to hot or cold. Over-the-counter pain relief handles it well for most people. If something feels off, we'd rather you call than wait.

How many visits does gum disease treatment take?

It depends on how extensive the issue is. Mild cases can sometimes be handled in 1-2 visits. More advanced cases might need treatment split across several appointments, often by dividing your mouth into sections. We'll map out the full plan with you before we start, so you know what to expect.

Will my gums go back to normal after treatment?

Healthy gums are the goal, and many patients see significant improvement after treatment and with good home care. That said, gum disease can recur, which is why follow-up cleanings on a shorter schedule are often recommended. With consistent care, we can keep things stable for the long haul.

Can I prevent gum disease from coming back?

In most cases, yes. Daily brushing and flossing at home form the foundation of prevention, and more frequent professional cleanings help if you've had active gum disease before. We'll customize your follow-up schedule based on your risk and show you any technique adjustments that will help at home.

Is gum disease connected to other health issues?

Research has linked gum disease to conditions like heart disease and diabetes, among others. The bacteria involved in gum inflammation can affect the rest of the body. Caring for your gums is part of caring for your overall health, which is one reason we take it seriously.

Let's Connect

Looking for modern care with a down-to-earth feel? We’d love to meet you.

REQUEST APPOINTMENT (515) 233-2898

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2625 University Blvd
Ames, IA 50010

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