General & Preventive Dentistry
Stay healthy,
catch what's not.
Index
This is where it all starts, and honestly, where the best outcomes come from. Regular cleanings, thorough exams, and early detection keep small things small. And when something does come up, catching it early means simpler treatment, less cost, and a lot less stress. Whether it's been six months or six years since your last visit, there's no lecture waiting for you here. Just a team that's glad you showed up.
Cleaning
What it is: A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing miss, especially along the gumline and between teeth. It's also when we check in on your overall oral health, catch anything early, and make sure you leave feeling fresh.
Who is it for: Everyone. If it's been a while, this is the easiest first step back. If you come regularly, this is how we keep it that way.
Exams
What it is: A comprehensive exam is more than just looking at your teeth. We assess your gums, jaw, bite, and screen for anything that needs attention: from cavities to early signs of oral cancer. Think of it as a full check-up for your mouth.
Who is it for: New patients getting a baseline, existing patients due for their regular check-up, or anyone who's noticed something that doesn't feel right.
Deep Cleaning (SRP)
What it is: Scaling and root planing is a deeper clean for patients with gum disease or significant tartar buildup below the gumline. We clean the root surfaces to help your gums reattach and heal. It sounds more intense than it is, most patients are surprised.
Who is it for: Patients with signs of gum disease: bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession. Often recommended after an exam reveals deeper pockets around the teeth.
Arrestin
What it is: Arrestin is a localized antibiotic we place directly into infected gum pockets after a deep cleaning. It fights bacteria right at the source and helps your gums heal faster. No pills, no system-wide medication, just targeted treatment where you need it.
Who is it for: Patients undergoing deep cleaning who have specific areas of infection or persistent gum disease that need extra support to heal.
Periodontal Maintenance
What it is: Once you've had treatment for gum disease, regular maintenance visits keep things stable. These are more thorough than a standard cleaning: we measure gum pockets, monitor your progress, and clean areas that are still recovering. It's the follow-through that makes the treatment stick.
Who is it for: Patients who've completed deep cleaning or gum disease treatment. Typically scheduled every 3–4 months instead of the standard 6.
From Our Blog
FAQs
Questions?
We've got answers.
We know choosing a dental practice is a big decision — especially if it's been a while, or if you're navigating something complex. Here are the ones we hear most.
Do you accept my insurance?
We work with most major dental insurance plans. Because every plan is different, the best way to confirm your specific coverage is to call us at [phone] — our team will verify your benefits before your first visit so there are no surprises. We also offer financing options for treatments not fully covered by insurance.
What is a prosthodontist — and why does it matter?
A prosthodontist is one of only nine recognized dental specialties, focused on restoring and replacing teeth. It requires three or more years of advanced training beyond dental school. In practical terms, it means Dr. Sergio has spent years mastering the cases most general dentists refer out — full-mouth reconstructions, complex implant work, TMJ disorders, and smile makeovers that require both engineering precision and artistic vision. Not every dental need requires a specialist. But when yours does, you're already in the right place.
It's been a while since my last visit. Is that okay?
More than okay — a good number of our new patients are in the same boat. We'll start with a thorough assessment, walk you through what we find, and put together a plan that works at your pace. No rush, no pressure, just a clear path forward.
Can I get everything done in one place — cleanings, implants, cosmetic work?
Yes, and that's by design. Smile Designs was built to be a single destination for every dental need — from routine cleanings and check-ups to complex implant cases, Invisalign, veneers, and even facial rejuvenation. You won't need to be referred somewhere else for specialty work. One team, one office, one standard of care across everything we do.
What if I already have a treatment plan from another dentist?
Bring it in. We offer free second opinions because we believe your confidence in your treatment plan matters as much as the plan itself. We'll review your case thoroughly, explain what we'd recommend and why, and give you an honest assessment — even if that means confirming that your current plan is the right one.