Treatments

Deep Cleaning in Burien, WA

Experiencing bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or tooth sensitivity? These symptoms often indicate the need for professional deep cleaning treatment. Deep cleaning in Burien goes beyond regular dental cleanings to address gum disease and restore your oral health to its optimal state.

At Burien Signature Dentistry, Dr. Andy Kim provides comprehensive periodontal therapy using advanced techniques to eliminate harmful bacteria and promote healing. Our personalized approach ensures comfortable treatment while delivering the thorough care your gums need to recover from disease and inflammation.

What Is Deep Cleaning?

Deep cleaning, professionally known as scaling and root planing, is a specialized dental procedure designed to treat gum disease in its early to moderate stages. This treatment involves two essential steps that work together to restore gum health and prevent further deterioration.

The first step, scaling, removes plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gum line. Unlike regular cleanings that focus primarily on visible tooth surfaces, scaling reaches deep into the pockets where bacteria accumulate and cause inflammation. The second step, root planing, smooths the tooth root surfaces to help your gums reattach properly and prevent future bacterial colonization.

The Deep Cleaning Process

Our periodontal therapy in Burien typically requires one to two appointments, depending on the extent of your gum disease. We begin with a comprehensive examination to assess the depth of gum pockets and identify areas requiring the most attention.

Local anesthesia ensures your comfort throughout the procedure. Using specialized instruments and ultrasonic technology, we carefully remove hardened plaque and bacteria from tooth root surfaces. The root planing process then creates smooth surfaces that encourage healthy gum reattachment and make it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate in the future.

Signs You May Need Deep Cleaning

Recognizing the early warning signs of gum disease can help you seek treatment before the condition progresses to more serious stages. Persistent bleeding during brushing or flossing often indicates inflammation that requires professional intervention beyond routine cleanings.

Other common symptoms include chronic bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, or changes in your bite alignment. According to the American Dental Association, chronic periodontitis affects 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States and can lead to the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth if left untreated.

Benefits of Professional Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning treatment offers numerous advantages for both your oral and overall health. By eliminating bacterial colonies beneath the gum line, this procedure reduces inflammation and allows your gums to heal naturally. Many patients notice reduced bleeding and sensitivity within days of treatment.

Long-term benefits include stronger tooth support, fresher breath, and a reduced risk of tooth loss due to advanced gum disease. Additionally, treating periodontal disease may contribute to better overall health, as research continues to explore connections between gum health and cardiovascular wellness.

Aftercare and Recovery

Following your deep cleaning procedure, proper aftercare ensures optimal healing and long-lasting results. We recommend using an antimicrobial mouth rinse and maintaining gentle brushing techniques while your gums recover. Some tenderness and slight bleeding are normal for the first few days after treatment.

We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your healing progress and assess how well your gums are responding to treatment. During this visit, we can also discuss ongoing preventive measures to maintain your improved gum health and prevent future periodontal problems.

Maintaining Results After Treatment

The success of your deep cleaning treatment depends largely on your commitment to excellent home care and regular professional maintenance. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized oral hygiene routine that includes proper brushing techniques, daily flossing, and any specialized tools that may benefit your specific situation.

Regular dental cleanings every three to four months may be recommended initially to ensure your gums remain healthy and to catch any signs of recurring problems early. As your gum health improves, we may be able to extend the time between maintenance appointments.

Professional Deep Cleaning at Burien Signature Dentistry

Dr. Andy Kim brings extensive experience in periodontal therapy to every deep cleaning procedure. Our practice utilizes modern techniques and technology to ensure thorough treatment while maintaining your comfort throughout the process. We take time to explain each step of your treatment and answer any questions you may have about your periodontal health.

Schedule your consultation today to learn how professional deep cleaning can restore your gum health and protect your smile for years to come. Call Burien Signature Dentistry at (206) 246-3222 or contact us online to discuss your periodontal therapy options.