Gum disease is more common, and more serious, than many people realize. Left untreated, it can impact more than just your oral health. Gum disease can contribute to health issues in the rest of your body, too. At Rainier Smiles, we believe periodontal care should be both proactive and comforting.
Led by husband and wife team Dr. Steve Hong and Dr. Jinju Song, our family-owned practice combines clinical expertise with heartfelt, personalized attention. If you’ve noticed signs like bleeding gums or persistent bad breath, it may be time to explore gum disease treatment tailored to your needs.
What Is Gum Disease and Why Does It Matter?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a chronic infection that begins with plaque buildup along the gumline. If not removed through proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, this plaque can cause inflammation (gingivitis) and lead to more serious conditions like periodontitis.
Beyond tooth and bone loss, gum disease has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and pregnancy complications, making it a vital health issue, not just a dental concern. Common signs of gum disease include:
- Swollen, red, or tender gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
At Rainier Smiles, our team closely monitors the health of your gums during every visit, ensuring any signs of gum disease are caught early and addressed with care and precision.
How Gum Disease Is Treated at Rainier Smiles
Our approach to periodontal care is rooted in personalized treatment and patient comfort. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may benefit from non-surgical therapies or more advanced procedures designed to restore gum health and preserve your natural smile.
Dr. Steve Hong’s skillful attention to detail and gentle approach make every treatment feel less intimidating and more manageable. Our periodontal treatments include:
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deep-cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar below the gumline.
- Antibacterial Therapies: Targeted antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria causing inflammation.
- Lifestyle Changes: Dr. Hong may recommend changes to your at-home oral hygiene routine, diet, and other habits to control gum disease.
- Routine Periodontal Maintenance Visits: These are “mini deep cleanings” that you’ll get every 3-4 months to maintain results and monitor gum health.
We’ll walk through the options together, answer all your questions, and develop a care plan that suits your comfort level and goals.
Why Early Detection Is Key
The earlier gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat and the more effective the results. That’s why at Rainier Smiles, preventive care is the cornerstone of our approach. Whether you’re visiting for a routine cleaning or a second opinion, we’ll conduct a thorough gum evaluation using the latest diagnostic tools and techniques.
Early intervention not only halts the progression of gum disease but can also save you from costly and invasive procedures later on. If you haven't had a dental checkup in a while, or if you’re noticing any unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Small symptoms can be signs of deeper problems, and acting now could protect your smile for years to come.
Compassionate Periodontal Care for the Whole Family
Rainier Smiles isn’t your typical dental practice. As a family-owned clinic run by general dentist Dr. Hong and board-certified pediatric specialist Dr. Song, we treat every patient like a member of our own family.
We understand that dental visits can be stressful, especially when facing gum disease treatment, which is why we’ve created an environment that’s warm, welcoming, and reassuring. Whether you’re an adult seeking comprehensive gum care or a parent concerned about your child’s dental health, we offer full-spectrum care under one roof!
Schedule Your Gum Disease Treatment Consultation in `
If you suspect you may need gum disease treatment, don’t put it off. Gentle, personalized periodontal care is just a call away. At Rainier Smiles in Tacoma, Dr. Steve Hong, Dr. Jinju Song, and our team are here to guide you toward better oral health with compassion and expertise. Contact us today at (253) 565-1695 to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier smile.