Periodontal Disease Treatment in Arlington, WA

man smiling at Arlington WA Dentist officeWhen you brush your teeth, do you notice swollen or bleeding gums? Do you wonder if it’s normal or dismiss it and not worry about it?

Bleeding and swollen gums are not normal, and both are signs that you have a bacterial gum infection your body is trying to fight against. This is gum disease, and prompt treatment is essential to protect your oral health and general well-being. 

A beautiful smile starts with healthy gums, and Dr. Andrew Kim, DDS wants to ensure that his patients have the tools, education, and support needed to achieve and maintain excellent gum health.

Gum Disease and Whole Body Wellness

There is significant scientific evidence linking gum disease to overall body wellness. Diabetes is an excellent example because uncontrolled it can lead to gum disease, and untreated gum disease also makes controlling your diabetes more difficult.

However, diabetes isn’t the only condition associated with gum disease; harmful bacteria associated with gum disease are linked to coronary heart disease, respiratory infections, arthritis, dementia, pregnancy complications, and many other conditions.

Common Symptoms of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease affects nearly half of all US adults over 30. One reason gingivitis is so widespread is that there are no symptoms, or the symptoms are so mild they go unnoticed.

While you may not notice anything wrong, your dentist and hygienist will, which is why preventive teeth cleanings and exams are crucial to protect your oral health.

Some common symptoms of gum disease are:

  • Gums that bleed easily when you brush
  • Swollen, tender, or inflamed gums
  • Gum recession
  • Chronic bad breath or halitosis
  • Loose teeth

Please call our Arlington, WA dental office right away at (360) 548-3188 if you notice any of these gum disease symptoms. The sooner we detect and treat the infection, the easier and more effective your treatment will be.

How We Treat Gum Disease

man at the dentist in arlington, waBecause we tailor your hygiene appointments to meet your needs, the treatment we provide depends on the extent of gum infection that we find.

Early Gum Disease or Gingivitis Treatment

Gingivitis, or periodontal gum disease, is the earliest and most common form of gum disease, and symptoms include swollen or tender gums and bleeding when you brush and floss.

With early intervention, gingivitis is typically reversible. Our dental hygienist will perform a thorough teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from all tooth surfaces and offer oral hygiene and home care tips. 

Advanced Treatment for Periodontitis

Without treatment, gingivitis progresses to advanced gum disease or periodontitis that attacks the bone and supporting structures of your teeth. Eventually, you’ll notice your gums pulling away from your teeth, and you are at increased risk for tooth loss as teeth become mobile.

Treating periodontitis requires a deep tooth cleaning called scaling and root planing. This procedure eliminates bacteria from above and below the gumline and creates a healthier environment for gum tissue to reattach to your teeth. 

Schedule a Teeth Cleaning at Our Arlington, WA Dental Office

Fortunately, periodontal disease is highly preventable. Brush for two minutes in the morning and before bedtime, and floss your teeth once. Visit our Arlington, WA dental office every six months for teeth cleanings, and we can help you prevent gum disease from developing.

We are pleased to serve patients in Arlington, Smokey Point, Marysville, Lake Stevens, Mount Vernon, and all surrounding communities.

Please call Sound Dental Solutions today at (360) 548-3188 to schedule your next exam and teeth cleaning.