Gum disease affects millions of Americans and can progress from mild inflammation to serious infection that damages the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth. At Burien Signature Dentistry, we provide comprehensive general dentistry services to help you maintain healthy gums and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
Dr. Andy Kim and our experienced team understand that healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful smile. We offer personalized gum disease treatment plans designed to restore your oral health and prevent future complications in a comfortable, welcoming environment.
Understanding Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins with bacterial growth in your mouth and can end with tooth loss if not properly treated. The condition starts as gingivitis, where gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
Without proper treatment, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. In this more severe form, the inner layer of the gum and bone pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect debris and become infected. As the disease progresses, these pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Recognizing the early signs of gum disease can help prevent serious complications:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums that make teeth appear longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Changes in your bite or the fit of partial dentures
Our Gum Disease Treatment Approach
At Burien Signature Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to treating gum disease. Our treatment plans are tailored to your specific needs and the severity of your condition.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For early-stage gum disease, we often recommend non-surgical treatments that can effectively halt the progression of the disease.
Scaling and Root Planing This deep cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths the tooth root surfaces, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere and allowing the gums to heal and reattach to the teeth.
Antibiotic Therapy We may prescribe antibiotics to help control bacterial infection. These can be taken orally or applied directly to the infected gum pockets as part of your treatment plan.
Ongoing Maintenance
After your initial treatment, maintaining your gum health requires consistent care and regular professional monitoring.
Regular Cleanings Patients with gum disease typically need more frequent professional cleanings than the standard twice-yearly schedule. These maintenance visits help prevent the recurrence of infection and monitor your healing progress.
Improved Home Care We provide detailed instructions on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as recommendations for specialized oral care products that can help maintain your gum health between visits.
Prevention and Lifestyle Factors
Preventing gum disease is always preferable to treating it. Several factors can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease:
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Smoking or tobacco use
- Genetics and family history
- Certain medications that reduce saliva flow
- Illnesses such as diabetes
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
According to the American Dental Association, chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States. It can lead to the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth and it may become more severe over time.
Our team emphasizes the importance of excellent oral hygiene, including proper brushing, flossing, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. We also provide dental hygiene education to help you maintain optimal oral health at home.
The Connection Between Gum Disease and Overall Health
Research has shown links between gum disease and various systemic health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By treating your gum disease, you’re not only protecting your oral health but potentially benefiting your overall wellbeing.
Pregnant women with gum disease may be at higher risk for premature birth and low birth weight babies. This makes professional periodontal care especially important during pregnancy.
Technology and Comfort
At Burien Signature Dentistry, we use advanced techniques and technology to make your gum disease treatment as comfortable and effective as possible. Our gentle approach helps anxious patients feel at ease during their procedures.
For patients who experience anxiety about dental treatments, we offer sedation dentistry options to help you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout your appointment.
Contact Dr. Andy Kim at Burien Signature Dentistry
Don’t let gum disease compromise your oral health and overall wellbeing. Dr. Andy Kim has extensive experience treating periodontal disease and helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. Our practice accepts Cherry Financing and works with all major PPO insurance plans to make your treatment affordable and accessible.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of gum disease or it’s been more than six months since your last professional cleaning, contact Burien Signature Dentistry today. Call us at (206) 246-3222 or visit our contact page to schedule your comprehensive evaluation.
FAQs about Gum Disease Treatment
Can gum disease be reversed or cured?
It depends on the stage. Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is completely reversible with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene. Your gums can return to full health within weeks. However, once it advances to periodontitis, where infection has caused bone loss, the damage is permanent. Periodontitis can be effectively managed through scaling and root planing, improved home care, and regular maintenance visits to halt progression and stabilize your gums. The earlier you seek treatment, the better your outcomes. Our preventative approach is designed to catch gum disease early and protect your smile.
What is scaling and root planing, and does it hurt?
Scaling and root planing, often called a “deep cleaning,” thoroughly cleans below the gumline where regular brushing can’t reach. Scaling removes plaque and tartar, while root planing smooths tooth roots to help gums reattach. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain. After treatment, some tooth sensitivity and gum tenderness are normal for a few days, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Sedation options are available if you feel anxious. Most people find the procedure far more comfortable than expected.
How much does gum disease treatment cost in Burien?
For early gingivitis, a professional cleaning typically costs $100 to $200. For periodontitis requiring scaling and root planing, costs average $200 to $400 per quadrant, bringing the total to $800 to $1,600 if all four quadrants need treatment. Most dental insurance plans cover 50% to 80% of periodontal treatment costs because it’s medically necessary. We accept all major PPO plans, including Delta Dental, MetLife, and Cigna, and offer Cherry financing for additional flexibility. Contact us to discuss your insurance and payment options.
What are the early warning signs of gum disease?
Watch for red, swollen, or puffy gums; bleeding when you brush or floss; persistent bad breath; gums pulling away from your teeth; loose or shifting teeth; pus between teeth and gums; or pain when chewing. Many people dismiss bleeding gums as normal, but healthy gums should not bleed from brushing. Some patients have gum disease without obvious symptoms, which is why regular dental exams are essential. If you notice any warning signs, schedule an evaluation right away. Early intervention can reverse damage before it becomes permanent.
How often do I need cleanings if I have gum disease?
Most patients with gum disease need periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months rather than the standard twice-yearly schedule. This increased frequency is essential because bacteria recolonize below the gumline more quickly in patients with periodontal disease. These maintenance visits involve deep cleaning below the gumline, monitoring pocket depths, and catching problems early. Your specific frequency depends on your pocket depths, home care habits, and how your gums respond to treatment. Most insurance plans cover these visits when documented as medically necessary.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes, research has established strong connections between gum disease and several serious health conditions. The chronic inflammation and bacteria from periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream and contribute to heart disease and stroke, poorly controlled diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. The good news is treating gum disease can improve these systemic risks. Controlling oral bacteria and reducing chronic inflammation benefits not just your mouth but your entire body. This connection makes gum disease treatment essential preventative healthcare, not just a cosmetic concern.
Dr. Andy Kim
Dedicated to providing expert dental care with a focus on patient comfort, advanced treatments, and long-lasting healthy smiles.
Dr. Payal Patel
Passionate about creating confident smiles with personalized orthodontic treatments, ensuring patients achieve perfect.
Dr. Jane Chang
Specializes in enhancing smiles with advanced cosmetic procedures, from teeth whitening to veneers, for a radiant, natural look.
We make quality dental care affordable with flexible payment options.
We are in-network with Delta Dental PPO, MetLife, Cigna Dental, Aetna Dental, Guardian, Ameritas Dental, United Concordia, United Healthcare Dental, Humana Dental, Principal Financial Group, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Principal Dental. Our office files claims on your behalf and provides benefit estimates before treatment.
We offer financing through Cherry and other trusted partners, allowing you to break down treatment costs into manageable monthly payments that fit your budget.
Questions? Call us at (206) 246-3222 to discuss your insurance coverage or financing options.
Burien Signature Dentistry offers comprehensive dentistry for patients throughout Burien, WA. From preventive care to advanced cosmetic procedures, our conservative and preventative approach delivers exceptional results.
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Looking for an experienced dentist in Burien, WA? Dr. Andy Kim and our team at Burien Signature Dentistry provide expert general and cosmetic dental care to patients throughout the Burien area, including Normandy Park, Seahurst, Des Moines, Tukwila, and surrounding communities.
We serve patients from Burien, Normandy Park, SeaTac, White Center, Riverton Heights, and throughout South King County. Our office welcomes new patients and offers convenient scheduling to fit your busy life. No referral needed – you can schedule directly with our caring team.
- 131 SW 156th St Suite 200,
Burien, WA 98166 - 206-246-3222
- Monday–Friday,
8 AM–4:30 PM - Saturday–Sunday,
Closed
