Gentle, Effective Periodontal Care for Healthier Gums in Tacoma
Bleeding or tender gums are easy to shrug off, but they’re often the first sign that your gums need some extra attention. At Parkland Smile Dental, we offer personalized periodontal care in Tacoma, WA, to help you stop gum disease early and keep your smile healthy for years to come. Whether you’re noticing mild inflammation or dealing with more advanced concerns, our friendly team will walk you through every option in plain language so you can feel good about your next step.
What Is Periodontal Care?
Periodontal care focuses on the health of your gums and the bone that holds your teeth in place. Gum disease begins when plaque and bacteria collect below the gumline. Over time, this can lead to swollen gums, deep pockets, bone loss, and eventually loose or missing teeth. Gum disease has also been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other whole-body health concerns.
The good news is that gum disease is very manageable with the right treatment and follow-up. Healthy gums mean fresher breath, less sensitivity, stronger teeth, and a solid foundation for future treatments like crowns, veneers, or dental implants.
5 Signs You May Need Periodontal Care
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, puffy, or tender gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste that won’t go away
- Gums pulling away from your teeth, making them look longer
- Teeth that feel loose or a bite that feels different
If any of these sound familiar, don’t wait. Gum disease is much easier to treat when it’s caught early.
Our Periodontal Treatments
We offer a full range of periodontal care in our office, so you can get the treatment you need without being bounced between providers.
Treatment | What It Does | What It Means for You |
Deep cleans below the gumline and smooths root surfaces | Removes buildup so gums can heal and reattach | |
Places a local antibiotic directly into gum pockets | Targets bacteria right where infection lives | |
Custom trays deliver medicated gel into gum pockets at home | Keeps fighting bacteria between visits | |
Precisely treats infected gum tissue | Less bleeding and faster healing | |
Periodontal cleaning | Ongoing maintenance cleanings for gum disease patients | Keeps infection under control long term |
Removes diseased or overgrown gum tissue | Shallower pockets that are easier to clean | |
Covers exposed roots with new gum tissue | Less sensitivity and protection from further recession | |
Uses a special membrane to encourage bone and tissue regrowth | Helps rebuild support lost to gum disease | |
Bonds loose teeth together for added stability | More comfortable chewing while your gums heal | |
Sculpts an uneven or “gummy” gumline | A more balanced, confident smile |
What to Expect During Treatment
- Before Treatment: Your visit starts with a thorough exam, including gum pocket measurements and digital X-rays. With our intraoral camera, you’ll see exactly what we see on a chairside screen. We’ll explain what’s going on and recommend a plan that fits your needs and budget.
- During Treatment: Most periodontal treatments are done right in our office with local numbing to keep you comfortable. If you feel nervous about dental visits, oral sedation is available to help you relax.
- After Treatment: Some mild tenderness is normal for a few days. We’ll send you home with simple care instructions and schedule regular maintenance visits, usually every three to four months, to keep your gums on track.
Technology That Makes Treatment Easier
Modern tools make gum treatment more comfortable and more precise. Ultrasonic scalers use gentle vibrations and water to break up tartar quickly. Laser therapy treats infected tissue with less bleeding and faster healing. When we need a closer look at bone levels, cone beam 3D imaging gives us a detailed view to guide treatment planning.
An Experienced, Caring Team
Dr. Andrew Lee completed a hospital-based residency rotating through the VA Palo Alto and Stanford University Medical Center. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Dr. Wai Shan Chiu earned her dental degree from the University of Washington and focuses on restorative care and prevention. Our hygienists, Shannon and Jeanine, love helping patients feel at ease and believe in educating, not lecturing.
Periodontal Care FAQs
Is periodontal treatment painful?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort. We numb the area before treatment, and sedation is available if you need it.
Does insurance cover periodontal care?
Many plans cover part of the cost. We accept Delta, MetLife, Cigna, Aetna, Regence, and others, and we offer CareCredit financing and an in-house membership plan.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum disease, called gingivitis, can often be reversed. More advanced gum disease can’t be fully cured, but it can be successfully managed with treatment and regular maintenance.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Gums
Your gums support everything about your smile, and it’s never too early to give them the care they deserve. If you’re looking for friendly, trusted periodontal care in Tacoma, WA, our team is here to help. Call Parkland Smile Dental or request an appointment online. Have questions about your coverage? We’re happy to verify your insurance before your visit.
