Comprehensive Dental Hygiene

Start your comprehensive hygiene with a routine check-up and a professional teeth cleaning.

ROUTINE HYGIENE WELLNESS

Improve your daily brushing and flossing with Gundersen Dental Care

Daily brushing and flossing remove a great deal of the plaque and bacteria that accumulates on your teeth, but it’s nearly impossible to remove it all on your own.

Your dental hygienist can be your partner in achieving good oral health and visiting the dentist at least twice a year for a professional cleaning can prevent tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Our dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on the condition of your teeth and gums.

What to expect at your check-up appointment:

How Can We Help?

We provide a range of services to help with your Comprehensive Hygiene and overall health. Please select an option:

Request an Appointment

Caring for your Smile

Here is what is included in your comprehensive hygiene appointment.

Gundersen Dental is your choice for a dentist in Tumwater, WA. Periodonatal disease

Visual & Gum Disease Evaluation

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding your teeth. Gum disease is one of the top reasons for tooth loss in adults, and because it is virtually pain-free, many patients do not know they have the disease. During each regular checkup, your dentist will check for signs of periodontal disease by measuring the space between your teeth and gums.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque (a sticky form of bacteria that forms on the teeth). If the plaque is not removed (by flossing, brushing, and regular dental checkups), it will continue to build up and create toxins that can damage the gums. Periodontal disease forms just below the gum line and creates small pockets that separate the gums from the teeth. Periodontal disease has two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis.

  • Gingivitis — This is the early stage of gum disease, when the gums become red and swollen, and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is treatable and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.
  • Periodontitis — If left untreated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, and the gums and bones that support the teeth will become seriously and irreversibly damaged. Gums infected with periodontitis can cause teeth to become loose, fall out, or be removed by a dentist.

Certain factors can increase a patient’s risk of developing periodontal disease, including:

  • Smoking or using chewing tobacco
  • Diabetes
  • Certain types of medication such as steroids, anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, calcium channel blockers, and oral contraceptives
  • Bridges that no longer fit properly
  • Crooked teeth
  • Old fillings
  • Pregnancy

While it is possible to have periodontal disease and not know it, some symptoms can include:

  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
  • Persistent bad breath or bad taste
  • Pus between your teeth and gums
  • Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Treating Gum Disease

Treatments for gum disease can vary depending on the severity of each individual case. Typical treatments include:

    • Non-surgical treatments such as at-home periodontal trays, and scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
    • Periodontal surgery and laser gum surgery
    • Dental implants

Preventing Gum Disease

Regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important for maintaining your health and the health of your smile. You don’t have to lose teeth to periodontal disease, and by practicing comprehensive hygiene at home, you can significantly reduce your chances of ever getting gum disease. Remember to brush regularly, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits to help keep your smile healthy.

Digital Imaging

Using the most advanced dental technology possible is just as important as staying up-to-date on the latest treatment techniques. Because our practice is dedicated to providing you with the safest and most convenient treatment options available, we utilize advanced digital X-ray technology in our office.

Digital X-rays provide several advanced imaging options designed to save time, provide clearer dental photos, and expose patients to less radiation than traditional X-ray technology.

Our practice is focused on making your dental experience as comfortable as possible. At your next appointment, we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have

Gundersen Dental is your choice for a dentist in Tumwater, WA. Cavity fillings
Dr Gundersen in Tumwater helping a patient with a smile on his face

Fluoride Treatment

Cavity Prevention

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends fluoride treatments based on your risk for developing cavities. Our team evaluates if your risk for cavities is low, moderate, or high, based on criteria outlined by the ADA.

Most individuals with low risk are offered a fluoride treatment twice a year.

Moderate risk individuals are offered fluoride twice a year as well as a take-home fluoride product to help reduce the chance of them getting another cavity.

Individuals with a high risk for cavities may be offered fluoride treatment more than twice a year, a take-home fluoride product, as well as an antimicrobial rinse to reduce the cavity-causing bacteria.

Professional Teeth Cleaning

All of our hygienists are well trained to perform a thorough teeth cleaning. Our team removes the plaque and tartar from your teeth and then polishes them to remove stains and smooth the tooth surface. In addition to hand-held hygiene techniques used by our skilled hygienists, ultrasonic devices deliver targeted treatments to hard to reach areas. These devices deliver ultrasonic vibrations to crush and move calcified deposits of calculus.

Gundersen Dental is your choice for a dentist in Tumwater, WA.
Gundersen Dental is your choice for a dentist in Tumwater, WA.

Oral Cancer Screening

Our office is not only dedicated to your smile, we’re also dedicated to your overall wellness. We take a holistic approach to your dental care, which includes an oral cancer screening as a part of your regular exam. Like many kinds of cancer, oral cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

We have the skills and tools to ensure that early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and precancerous conditions are identified. While these symptoms may be caused by other, less serious problems, it is very important to visit our office to rule out the possibility of oral cancer. The most common symptoms of oral cancer include:

 

  • Red or white spots or sores anywhere in the oral cavity
  • A sore that bleeds easily or does not heal
  • A lump, thickening, or rough spot
  • Pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in the mouth or on the lips
  • Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue

Our team is trained in a simple, quick screening that involves an examination of your oral cavity as a whole, and not just your teeth, to detect cancerous and precancerous conditions. Besides a visual examination of your mouth, we will also feel the tissue of your mouth and throat to detect any abnormalities. If we find an area of concern, we may perform a simple test, such as a brush test, which collects cells from a suspicious lesion in the mouth to be sent to a laboratory for analysis. If this test comes back atypical or positive, we may recommend a biopsy.

Aside from receiving an oral cancer screening during your checkup at our office, there are many things you can do to help prevent oral cancer.

  • The best way to prevent oral cancer is to avoid all tobacco products and only drink alcohol in moderation.
  • Maintain a healthy, balanced diet.
  • Limit your exposure to the sun and always wear UV-A/B-blocking, sun-protective lotions on your skin as well as your lips.
  • During your next dental appointment, ask your dentist to perform an oral exam. Early detection of oral cancer can improve the chance of successful treatment.
very helpful staff and up to date equipment.
Louis Francavilla
Louis Francavilla
17:26 18 Oct 23
I have been going here now for a few years and everyone is great. Kari does an excellent job of being gentle but thorough when cleaning my teeth. Dr. Gundersen also does a great job of only correcting what needs to be done and watching the rest.
Conlan McConnell
Conlan McConnell
15:02 14 Oct 23
Dr. Arne and my hygienist Kari are wonderful. I feel very welcome by the entire staff and it is really a pleasure to go to the dentist!!
Erich Hahn
Erich Hahn
17:19 10 Oct 23
All staff was very kind and professional. Appointment was thorough, yet to the point. My hygienist, Genevieve, was great and made recommendations that showed me she cared.
Ivy Jo Murphy
Ivy Jo Murphy
14:36 07 Oct 23
Everyone, as always, was friendly, courteous, and professional.
Tim Arnold
Tim Arnold
14:57 29 Sep 23
Just a normal cleaning. In and out with no problems.
Bruce Hooker
Bruce Hooker
18:33 28 Sep 23
Great dental visit , very good teeth cleaning. Perfect , Thanks
Annie Schlipphacke
Annie Schlipphacke
14:57 28 Sep 23
Always a good appointment! So fun seeing all my sweet, cute and funny girls! Dr. Gunderson is very thorough.
Carole Burinsky
Carole Burinsky
17:06 27 Sep 23
They are great at Gundetson. Kerry did an excellent job cleaning my teeth. No easy chore.
Ronald Sergi
Ronald Sergi
16:56 27 Sep 23
The staff and dentist at Gundersen Dental Care are professional, knowledgeable, have excellent communication/listening skills, and put the patient at ease when working with them. They explain technical details in plain-speak so the patient can easily understand their dental issue. I highly recommend this dentist office to anyone seeking a new dentist or wanting a second opinion of a complicated dental issue.
Mary-Lou Owen
Mary-Lou Owen
16:05 27 Sep 23
Great staff! Positive and friendly and professional! My dentist for 49 years!
Dave Williams
Dave Williams
14:00 27 Sep 23
Kerry and the rest of the staff are great. Dr. Gunderson does great work also.
Ron Sergi
Ron Sergi
11:58 27 Sep 23
Totally comfortable. Very thorough.
Mona Frisk
Mona Frisk
14:03 22 Sep 23
Dr Gunderson and his team are very knowledgeable, professional and helpful. They are always positive and ready to solve any problem. My Wife & I do not admit this lightly, as we loved and personally knew our previous Dentist (Dr Meyers) who was a tremendous artist Dentist, but now retired. We definitely recommend Gunderson and His Staff. Thank You, LeRoy & Karon
LeRoy Sweet
LeRoy Sweet
17:55 21 Sep 23
Very graceful for the excellent service they provided me. They got me in quickly and help me through the process of getting my appointment for a root canal. Thank you
Dorothy Seibold
Dorothy Seibold
15:37 21 Sep 23
I have always had a positive experience at Gundersen Dental. The office staff is always friendly and helpful. Dr. Arnie is skilled and uses the most current technology in dental care. I highly recommend this dental practice.
Teresa Davenport
Teresa Davenport
14:15 15 Sep 23
Always professional and personable.
Stan Dickhoff
Stan Dickhoff
14:05 15 Sep 23
Jenna was great - encouraging, pleasant, and gentle.
Robert Mead
Robert Mead
14:03 14 Sep 23
This dentist is very professional.
Angie Ramacher
Angie Ramacher
02:03 14 Sep 23
Always a pleasure to be treated by your staff. When I am there, I consider you and your staff family.
John Budde
John Budde
03:25 10 Sep 23
All of my experiences there have been great, & this one was no exception. Debbie has always been my caregiver. She couldn’t be more personable or conscientious!
Beverly Zehrung
Beverly Zehrung
21:17 09 Sep 23
Dr. Gunderson and staff are very caring, explain everything they are doing and do excellent work.
Jim Plampin
Jim Plampin
15:40 08 Sep 23
Love my hygienist! Dr. Gundersen and everyone in his office are super professional and friendly!
Anar storage
Anar storage
15:15 08 Sep 23
Good cleaning and very gentle
Stan Moon
Stan Moon
14:26 08 Sep 23
Impressive dental service. Highly recommended!
Justin X.
Justin X.
20:09 07 Sep 23
Very good visit, as always the station was spotless, Kari was friendly and professional, Arne is always very efficient.
Jay Christianson
Jay Christianson
14:44 02 Sep 23
If you are looking for a new dentist, this is the place. Great staff, fantastic service/care. Go, you will not be disappointed.
Mark Sherman
Mark Sherman
13:13 29 Aug 23
Kind, caring, & gentle dental care. Recommend highly.
Susan Larson
Susan Larson
15:02 25 Aug 23
I was concerned about a tooth and they got me in the same day!
Susan Reynolds
Susan Reynolds
14:05 25 Aug 23
I have been a patient of Gunderson Dental for at least 20 years. The dedication and care from Dr. Gunderson and his staff is what keeps me coming back. I recommend them to anyone who is looking for a professional, caring, and confident team. I guarantee you will leave with a smile on your face.
Bobbie Jo Mager
Bobbie Jo Mager
14:09 24 Aug 23
Wonderful experience! Nice and friendly staff. I would definitely recommend Dr. Gundersen’s office.
Dave Rodgers
Dave Rodgers
15:39 12 Aug 23
Great service and care, as always!
Lavon Watson
Lavon Watson
13:51 04 Aug 23
Good folks from the front of the house to the back. Jenna deserves special credit for doing a thorough, yet gentle, job with deep cleanings. Had a scheduling snafu and she volunteered to work late so I could be seen promptly. Thank you, Jenna!
gunnar johnson
gunnar johnson
01:51 04 Aug 23
Quick, courteous and thorough. Appreciated all safety precautions
Chris Gundersen
Chris Gundersen
18:46 31 Jul 23
I had my teeth examined and cleaned by Debbie the other day and had such an excellent experience. She is gentle but thorough, and explains everything fully. She has a very positive pleasant and friendly demeanor, making the experience comfortable. My teeth feel great when I leave!
Debbie
Debbie
16:47 29 Jul 23
I saw Debbie again yesterday for my teeth cleaning and xrays. As always she is on time, friendly, professional, gentle and thorough. She is an excellent hygienist and kind person, makes me feel welcome and comfortable. I highly recommend her!
Debbie VanVelzer
Debbie VanVelzer
15:50 28 Jul 23
Wonderful people, explaining all that needs to be done and addressed all my concerns And a plan to fix alllllll which I’ve never had a dentist take that much time and do a thorough job 😁❤️🍦Highly recommended 😁❤️
crystal rogers
crystal rogers
15:16 28 Jul 23
Everyone at Gundersen Dental Care acted with kindness, respect, and professionalism. I will definitely be going back!
Cassidy Smith
Cassidy Smith
15:31 20 Jul 23
Always friendly and professional!
Lisa Lane
Lisa Lane
19:29 18 Jul 23
Amazing staff! Great experience, felt very well taken care of. Highly recommend!
Mary Luther
Mary Luther
15:07 12 Jul 23
I had a temporary crown replaced and there was no pain or discomfort! Dr Gundersen is gentle
Phyllis Anderson
Phyllis Anderson
23:24 07 Jul 23
A pleasant experience. Took efficient care of business, Answered questions and provided helpful suggestions about oral health care.
Jay Allen
Jay Allen
19:52 30 Jun 23
I can’t recommend Dr. Gundersen and his staff any more. I avoid the dentist at all costs and hadn’t established care after moving back to the South Sound. It caught up with me and I needed to be seen quickly.I called a couple of other clinics and they wanted me to call and make sure my insurance was taken, or couldn’t see me for months.The front desk at Gundersen Dental was beyond accommodating and kind. I was able to get in on a cancellation the following day and my good experience continued when I walked in the door. They didn’t make me feel badly for having been a dental visit slacker and were friendly and professional. I feel confident in the plan Dr. Gundersen created and walked out feeling so so relieved that I have a dentist for as long as he continues to practice!I really cannot recommend their office more.
Jessica Reese
Jessica Reese
16:47 30 Jun 23
Staff is always cheerful and accommodating. Dr. Gunderson is the kindest and best dentist I've ever had work on my teeth. I ignored my dental health for years for fear of dentists. I no longer miss appointments.
Leah Wall
Leah Wall
14:07 30 Jun 23
I felt like Dr. Gundersen explained everything thoroughly and in a way that made sense. The rest of the staff were amazing and polite as well. Deb did my cleaning & was very gentle, made sure I was comfortable & super nice.
Kaysee Svendsen
Kaysee Svendsen
15:01 23 Jun 23
Great job as usual you guys. Thanks!
Joseph Granger
Joseph Granger
16:15 22 Jun 23
I had a very good experience at my dental cleaning. The team works to keep my teeth and gums in good shape and gives me sound advice. Dr. Gundersen has been good to do some preventive work that others have shied away from.
David Matthews
David Matthews
14:19 21 Jun 23
The appointment was on time. The hygienist was professional and friendly. The cleaning and consultation were thorough and they listened to and answered my questions.
Liz & Jim Sedore
Liz & Jim Sedore
17:30 09 Jun 23
Everything about this dental practice is great!
Marilyn Krause
Marilyn Krause
14:13 08 Jun 23
Totally cool time! Thanks!
Paul Edwards
Paul Edwards
15:02 04 May 23
Thorough AND painless. At 70 years old, I’d like to keep my teeth and appreciate working with a great team. The exam includes checking for any signs of oral cancer, part of preventive medicine and early detection. Brushing, flossing, and use of water pic were re-enforced.
Garry Brown
Garry Brown
14:13 28 Apr 23
Excellent customer service and friendly staff. I appreciate that Dr. Arne takes the time to explain everything. If you are looking for a dentist, I recommend Gundersen Dental Care. They will treat you right.
George Sharp
George Sharp
15:02 27 Apr 23
Competent, professional, caring concerned Dentist and staff! 😁
Fran
Fran
15:55 21 Apr 23
Very well run clinic. Dr. Gunderson and staff were very thorough and professional.
Warren Foster
Warren Foster
13:55 20 Apr 23
Always a great experience with all the staff and Dr. Gundersen.
Andi Weiks
Andi Weiks
15:39 12 Apr 23
Professional, friendly staff they take good care of you.
Brent Avery
Brent Avery
14:31 01 Apr 23
I have been a patient here since before Dr. Arne started working alongside his Dad, George. From Patty running the office to Kerri my hygienist, plus both docs; impeccable service, maintenance, and management of my oral health - for 25+ years! Look no further for a lifelong dentist for yourself and your family, where you’ll hear all of the options and get to make the best choice as you incorporate their expertise and experience into your decisions about your only set of teeth ever!
Amy Sauerlender
Amy Sauerlender
02:44 18 Mar 23
Very professional and caring staff!!!!
Jody Luedecker
Jody Luedecker
17:41 10 Mar 23
The best dentist ever!
David Bartlett
David Bartlett
15:12 09 Mar 23
The technician is a very friendly person with a gentle touch.
Hannele Buechner
Hannele Buechner
15:29 08 Mar 23
They took the time to get to know me and know my dental concerns and pain fears. The doctor answered my questions and addressed my concerns. I really appreciate this teams patient care.
Cristina Holland
Cristina Holland
23:51 05 Mar 23
Went in for a cleaning yesterday, it was time for x-rays, and Dr. Gunderson found two molars that were badly in need of a crown, one of them was from a former "budget" dentist who had done a poor job of a crown only three years ago. I'm grateful for all the staff at this office.
Linda Lawson
Linda Lawson
16:55 04 Mar 23
EVERYBODY there is absolutely amazing. Patty was a lot of help and walked me through everything. Which was incredible helpful. Just all in all really good people
Kelly Creekpaum
Kelly Creekpaum
00:21 16 Feb 23
Great dental care. I've been going to Gundersen Dental for close to 15 years and have always had a good experience.
Natasha Box
Natasha Box
15:09 15 Feb 23
Friendly and professional office. My first impressions were good and my first exam was thorough but easy. Dr. Gundersen and his staff communicate well.
Rachel Hof
Rachel Hof
18:44 09 Feb 23
I’ve received excellent care from Gundersen Dental Clinic for years and highly recommend them.
Mike Polodna
Mike Polodna
15:26 08 Feb 23
Dr. Gundersen's office has been a really great dentist and I'm so glad I found this office after moving to Olympia from out of state. Definitely recommend.
Becky Garnett
Becky Garnett
16:49 31 Jan 23
FANTASTIC. GREAT customer care.
Richardh
Richardh
15:35 27 Jan 23
Great customer service and gentle cleaning.
Donna Davis
Donna Davis
23:39 22 Jan 23
Tumwater Dentist, Dr. Arne Gundersen

How often should I get my teeth cleaned?

The Academy of General Dentistry recommends seeing the dentist for a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. We may recommend you visit more often depending on your specific situation and risk of disease. Some conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or pregnancy may require more frequent cleanings to keep you and your mouth healthy.

Will my insurance cover my check-up appointment?

Most insurances cover the procedures completed at a check-up and cleaning appointment. Our great team of insurance coordinators will help you navigate through your specific insurance benefits and provide you with an estimate of costs should there be a remaining balance after the insurance payment.

our Tumwater Dentist at Gundersen Dental

MAINTAIN YOUR ORAL HEALTH

Improve hygiene habits and enjoy a gentle cleaning with our team.