Treatments

Gum Disease Treatment in Burien, WA

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.