Health-First Periodontal & Provider Checklist
Before veneers or implants, address underlying gum health first — then vet your provider.
Step 1: Gum health (health-first planning)
☐ Schedule a periodontal assessment — confirm no active pocketing or bleeding is present
☐ If gum disease is detected, review LANAP® laser therapy as a gentler alternative to scalpel surgery
☐ Evaluate gummy-smile contouring to balance gum lines before veneers are placed
☐ If you have existing implants, schedule a laser peri-implantitis check for any tissue inflammation
Step 2: Vetting your Cedar Rapids provider
☐ Verify an active Iowa (IA) dental license
☐ Confirm current malpractice insurance coverage
☐ Review past patient before-and-after cases
☐ Confirm availability of digital smile simulations
☐ Confirm customer references you can contact
The clinical rule of "health-first cosmetic planning" is simple: active gum disease (periodontitis) is a complete contraindication for cosmetic veneers or implants. Treat the foundation first, then build the smile.