Locally owned and operated Auburn Periodontics & Implants offers exceptional dental and periodontal What is Gum Disease?
Periodontal disease is very serious and could cause you to suffer tooth loss if not properly treated by your periodontist. Some people experience bleeding, puffy or painful gums as their primary symptoms. However, some people do not experience symptoms of periodontal disease and they may not even know that they have it. If you believe you may have symptoms of periodontal disease, we encourage you to make an appointment with Dr. Joseph Haynes as soon
as possible. Also referred to as periodontal disease or periodontitis, gum disease is caused by bacteria forming on our teeth. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. Diseases of the gum are often painless, so without regular dental care, you might not know you have it. Warning Signs
• Gums that bleed easily
• Red, swollen, tender gums
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures
It is important to contact Auburn Periodontics & Implantology if you are concerned you have gum disease because the earlier any issues are identified, the sooner Dr. Haynes and you can begin working TOGETHER toward a solution. The Early Stage of Gum Disease Is Called Gingivitis
If you have gingivitis, your gums may become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is typically still reversible and is usually
eliminated by professional dental cleanings and daily brushing and flossing. Advanced Gum Disease Is Called Periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis is severe and progressive if not addressed. It can lead to the loss of tissue and bone that support the teeth and it may become more severe over time. If it does, your teeth will feel loose and start moving around in your mouth. It usually gets worse progressively, but many patients experience periods of rapid progression. Aggressive periodontitis is a highly destructive form of periodontal disease that occurs in patients who are otherwise healthy. Common features include rapid loss of tissue and bone, and may occur in localized areas or in the entire mouth. Periodontal disease cannot be cured, however, we have measures to help slow or stop the progression. Despite the dramatic negative health risks that are linked to gum disease, people who have it often go undiagnosed. Current research suggests a link between periodontal disease with premature birth, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. We at Auburn Periodontics and Implantology believe your whole health is important, so it is most definitely a condition we take seriously and treat immediately. Depending on the severity of the disease, there are different types of treatments that Dr. Haynes recommends. Regular dental care and examinations are very important. The treatment approaches that Dr. Haynes might recommend will depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed. Your care will always be personalized at Auburn Periodontics and Implantology.
01/01/2026
Do you suspect you may need whole mouth dental implants in Puyallup? Implants are made of highly durable titanium that acts as screws inserted into the jawbone. It's done to replace a damaged tooth, and a root canal is deemed insufficient. A crown is placed over the implant and mimics real teeth. Here are the reasons you should opt for implants, especially if it's professionally recommended by a periodontist.
There are many reasons to opt for whole mouth dental implants in Puyallup. This ensures long-term oral health.
12/15/2025
Dentists Explain Why Using Dental Floss Is Important in Black Diamond
dental floss black diamondDo you floss daily? Flossing as part of your oral hygiene is essential for dental health, yet so many Black Diamond residents don’t floss every day, or don’t do it at all. Here is a primer on dental floss and why it’s critical to ensure strong teeth and gum health.
Gum Protection
Do your gums regularly bleed when brushing? If you notice hints of red after spitting out the toothpaste, then it’s usually a sign of gingivitis, stemming from a lack of flossing or not flossing properly. Dental floss can reach areas of the teeth that a toothbrush fails to reach. When you floss the right way, the gums are protected from inflammation and can prevent issues like frequent bleeding and bacterial buildup.
Overall Health
It’s not unusual for dentists to encourage their patients to floss more frequently if they aren’t already doing it daily. What many people don’t know is that flossing does more than just protect your gums. It also protects your overall bodily health. Recent medical research has linked gum disease to other health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and type II diabetes.
Flossing Makes Cleanings Less Painful
The purpose of routine cleanings by a dental professional is to remove plaque and tartar. Flossing helps prevent plaque from turning into the more rigid and harder-to-remove tartar. Having excess tartar can prolong cleaning times at the dental office, making the experience less pleasant.
Using dental floss as part of your daily oral hygiene routine is essential for Black Diamond residents. Learn why flossing matters.
12/15/2025
How to Find a Kent Periodontist Near Me
periodontist near me KentAre you searching the local area for a periodontist near me? If so, it’s essential that you find a clinic with an established reputation with the locals. The process isn’t particularly difficult, but it does require some diligent research. Here are some insider tips for procuring a reliable dental office in Kent. This ensures the clinic you choose is trustworthy and one you and your family can return to time and again for future appointments.
Positive Patient Feedback
Always look at the customer reviews and read their comments. What are their sentiments regarding the quality of service, professionalism, and customer courtesy? The reviews don’t have to be a perfect five stars across the board, but do be careful of clinics with multiple one and two-star reviews.
Clear Pricing Information
While some clinics will list the price of services on their websites, you can also get this information before the appointment. Ask beforehand the amount you’ll owe out of pocket. Never proceed with the exam and/or procedure without knowing the total fees first.
List of Accepted Insurance Providers
Ask beforehand if your insurance is among the clinic’s list of accepted providers. There have been instances of patients who had to pay fully out of pocket because there was an assumption that their insurance was automatically accepted. Typically, you’ll be asked about your insurance information when making an appointment.
It's not hard to find a periodontist near me, but the process does require some research. Here is how to do research in Kent.
12/15/2025
Why a Dental Cleaning Near Me Twice a Year Is Smart in Edgewood
dental cleaning near me EdgewoodDo you remember the last date of your routine teeth cleaning in Edgewood? Most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months. Most people put this off. However, patients must commit to these routine habits. Skipping an appointment here and there may not seem like a big deal. Keep in mind, however, that neglecting this essential care can have health ramifications. Here are the benefits of scheduling biannual dental cleaning near me.
Saves You Money
Most dental insurance policies cover dental cleanings, so you pay zero or very little out of pocket. Either way, this will save you money and discomfort in the long run. The alternative is dealing with cavities and root canals that result in expensive dental procedures that your insurance may not fully cover.
Maintain a Bright Smile
Scheduling a cleaning twice a year keeps your teeth clean, and thereby whiter and brighter. When you forgo an appointment, germs like plaque and tartar start to build up, leading to discoloration. When you let too much time elapse between cleanings, stains, yellowing, and bad breath will begin to form.
It's important for your oral health that you schedule Edgewood dental cleaning near me twice a year. This keeps cavities at bay.
12/15/2025
Basic Information about Teeth Caps in Federal Way
teeth caps federal wayWhat’s the extent of your knowledge about teeth caps? Also known as dental crowns, these are a way of restoring teeth that have become damaged due to cavities, a root canal, or caries. Learn about how they work and the issues that may warrant having a crown placed over a compromised tooth.
The Basics
Dental crowns are a way of fortifying the teeth that have sustained damage over time. It’s an alternative to having the entire tooth removed and replaced with an implant. Depending on the extent of damage to both the teeth and gums, your dentist will make a recommendation. A full removal is usually recommended when the tooth is damaged beyond repair.
Dental patients have a lot of questions about teeth caps. Here is the basic information before visiting a Federal Way dentist.
12/15/2025
Finding Reliable Dental Offices Near Covington
dental offices covingtonAre you searching for established dental offices in or around Covington? Perhaps you need a dental implant or a screening for oral cancer. Either way, you want a clinic that you and your family can turn to regularly for all of your dental needs. With a dental clinic on nearly every street corner, selecting a provider isn’t always easy. Here are a few ways to help you select a suitable clinic with a trusted reputation within the community.
1. Ask Your Friends
The first step is quite simple yet often overlooked. Simply ask the people in your inner circle to learn where they go for their own oral checkups. Ask a wide range of people, including coworkers, neighbors, and even people you run into on a frequent basis, such as the mailman, gardener, or your children’s teacher. This will easily yield a handful of references to clinics that are within a short drive.
2. Do Your Research
Asking people you know should net you a sizable list of clinics. The work isn’t over, though. The next step is to look up each clinic. Browse their websites and find out what types of dental services they offer. For example, does the clinic provide sinus lift surgery if that’s something you suspect you may need? Other information to look up includes years of operation, certifications, awards, etc.
3. Read Patient Reviews
Many people examine reviews and use the feedback to determine whether they should call the clinic for an appointment. You’ll learn about past clients and their personal experiences with the clinic, including the quality of service and customer courtesy. While a single less-than-positive review shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, multiple one to two-star reviews are a red flag.
Finding reliable dental offices in and around Covington isn't hard but does require some in-depth research. Here are some research tips.
07/15/2025
https://auburnperio.com/2025/07/what-you-should-know-about-permanent-dental-implants-in-lea-hill/
What You Should Know About Permanent Dental Implants in Lea Hill
permanent dental implants in lea hillAre you contemplating permanent dental implants in Lea Hill? It’s everyone’s intent to keep their teeth clean and healthy. However, even with routine dental hygiene at home, teeth can still decay over time. Similarly, physical trauma to the mouth can also cause damage. This is where implants enter the picture. Here are some basic facts and benefits to consider.
There are basic facts about permanent dental implants that every Lea Hill patient should know. Here are the essentials.
06/09/2025
Good oral health care in Puyallup begins in the kitchen. It largely comes down to what you eat on a daily basis. Most dentists recommend a diet minimal in added sugars. This doesn’t mean you have to eliminate sweets completely, but it should be relegated to an occasional treat. Significantly cutting down on sugar, combined with routine dental visits, is the way to go. Here are some other dietary practices we suggest for long-term dental health and cavity prevention.
Check Labels
Always look at the label on food packages before purchase. How many grams of sugar does it have in relation to a single serving? It’s also a good idea to see the ingredient list. If sugar or high fructose corn syrup is one of the first ingredients listed, then it’s high in sugar.
Opt for Naturally Sweetened Foods
If you have a sweet tooth, the good news is you don’t have to give up sweets completely. Aim for foods that are naturally sweetened, such as whole fruits. In addition to healthy natural sugars, fruits also provide vitamins and are a good source of fiber. When you consume added sugars, on the other hand, small amounts remain in your mouth, providing a food source for plaque and other harmful bacteria. In turn, the bacteria produce acid that erodes the teeth enamel. This is the leading cause of cavities.
Progress Slowly
Creating a routine dental and dietary habit can take time. Instead of quitting sugar cold turkey, wean off it slowly. For example, if you add sugar to your morning coffee, reduce the sugar by half for several weeks before transitioning to plain black coffee. If you eat two cookies every day for dessert, cut it down to one first before fully transitioning to a healthier alternative, such as nuts and fruits.
Want to Discuss Good Oral Health Care with our Team in Puyallup?
Cutting out sugar is a good start, but there are other steps for better long-term oral health. Entrust the staff at Auburn Periodontics and Implantology for routine dental checkups. We can provide regular cleanings and exams for the entire family. Contact us to set up your first appointment today.
Oral health care in Puyallup begins with a healthy diet. This includes eating habits limited in refined sugars.
05/06/2025
When it comes to getting dental implants in Black Diamond, some patients may learn they don’t have enough bone in their upper jaw to hold the implants securely. This often happens in the back of the mouth, where the sinuses sit just above the upper teeth. If there isn’t enough bone between your mouth and sinus cavity, placing implants can be risky or even impossible without an added procedure called a sinus lift.
What Exactly Are Sinus Lifts?
A sinus lift is a type of oral surgery that adds bone to the upper jaw. The surgeon gently lifts the sinus membrane upward and then places bone graft material into the space. Over time, this bone grows and becomes part of your jaw, creating a sturdy foundation for dental implants. This makes sinus lifts a vital part of treatment for patients who want long-lasting implants but don’t currently have enough bone support.
Comfort and Safety During the Procedure
Modern dental technology makes sinus lifts a smooth and comfortable experience for most patients. Local anesthesia or sedation options help minimize discomfort during the procedure. Recovery time is generally quick, with most people returning to their normal routine within a few days. If you’re in the Black Diamond area and considering implants, this approach can ensure a more secure and pain-free outcome.
Why Sinus Lifts Improve Long-Term Implant Success
A key benefit of a sinus lift is that it increases the chances that your dental implants will last. Implants need to be anchored in strong, healthy bone to stay in place for many years. By increasing the bone in your upper jaw, sinus lifts help prevent implant failure and reduce the risk of bone loss in the future. In other words, it’s an extra step that leads to a better, more reliable result.
Ideal Candidates for a Sinus Lift
You may need a sinus lift if you’ve lost back teeth in your upper jaw, have experienced bone loss due to gum disease, or your sinuses are naturally large and low. A detailed exam, including imaging, will help determine if you need this procedure before moving forward with dental implants. Your dental team will guide you through the decision with your comfort and long-term dental health in mind.
How Bone Grafts Support Overall Oral Health
The bone graft material used during a sinus lift isn’t just for implants—it also helps improve the overall structure of your jaw. Healthy bone in the upper jaw plays a role in supporting facial structure and preventing that “sunken” look that can occur after tooth loss. By restoring this bone, sinus lifts can contribute to a more youthful facial appearance and better oral health in general, especially in areas like Black Diamond where patients value lasting dental solutions.
Gentle, Proven Care for Restoring Your Smile
If you’ve been told you need a sinus lift before getting dental implants, don’t be discouraged. It’s a trusted and effective method that helps many people restore their smile with confidence. For patients in Black Diamond, this type of procedure can be the key to making dental implants possible and long-lasting.
Reach Out to a Trusted Team for Guidance
At Auburn Periodontics and Implantology, we offer gentle, expert care for sinus lifts and implant procedures. If you have questions or want to know whether a sinus lift is right for you, contact us today. We’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable throughout every step of your dental journey.
Learn how sinus lifts can improve dental implant comfort and success in Black Diamond with safe, lasting results that restore your smile.
04/07/2025
Periodontics is a dental specialty focused on the health of your gums and the structures that support your teeth. While brushing and flossing help keep your teeth clean, your gums also need attention to prevent disease and damage. In Auburn, many people overlook gum care until problems arise. Learning about periodontics can help you catch early signs of gum issues before they turn into something serious.
Why Gum Health Is So Important
Your gums do more than just hold your teeth in place—they protect the roots and bones that support your smile. If your gums become infected or inflamed, it can lead to gum disease, also called periodontal disease. This condition starts off small, like red or swollen gums, but can grow into bigger issues like tooth loss or jawbone damage. That’s why caring for your gums is just as important as caring for your teeth.
Signs You Might Need Periodontal Care
Some early signs of gum problems are easy to miss. If your gums bleed when you brush, feel tender, or look red and puffy, it may be time to see a periodontal specialist. Bad breath that won’t go away or gums that are pulling back from the teeth are also warning signs. The earlier you catch these symptoms, the easier they are to treat.
How Periodontists Help
Periodontists are dentists who specialize in gum health and are trained to treat and prevent gum disease. They can do deep cleanings to remove plaque and bacteria from under the gumline. They also treat more serious issues like gum recession and bone loss. In some cases, they may perform surgery to repair or rebuild damaged tissue. A periodontist can create a treatment plan that’s just right for your needs.
Preventing Gum Disease at Home
There are simple steps you can take at home to protect your gums. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help keep plaque under control. It’s also important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. If you have a family history of gum disease or notice any symptoms, a visit to a periodontal specialist can keep things from getting worse.
Who Should See a Periodontist?
Not everyone needs to see a periodontist, but if you’ve been told you have gum disease or are at risk, it’s a smart idea. People with diabetes, smokers, and those with a family history of dental problems are more likely to have gum issues. If you live in Auburn and want to make sure your gums are healthy, a specialist can give you peace of mind and a plan for care.
Looking for Help with Gum Health?
If you have questions about your gum health or think you may need expert care, Auburn Periodontics is here to help. Our team is ready to answer your questions, provide guidance, and create a plan that works for you. Visit auburnperio.com to learn more or schedule a visit.
Learn about understanding periodontics and why it matters for healthy gums. Protect your smile with the right care and professional guidance.
03/17/2025
Dental implants have become a popular and reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a natural look and feel. However, for some Lake Tapps residents, getting dental implants may require an additional procedure known as a sinus lift. This crucial step can significantly increase the chances of a successful implant by improving bone structure and support. Understanding why sinus lifts are necessary and how they work can help patients feel more confident about their dental implant journey.
What Is a Sinus Lift?
A sinus lift, also known as a sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. Over time, bone loss in the upper jaw can occur due to tooth loss, periodontal disease, or natural aging. When the bone in this area is too thin, placing a dental implant becomes difficult or even impossible without additional support.
During a sinus lift, a dental specialist gently raises the sinus membrane and places bone graft material in the space created. This graft material encourages natural bone growth, creating a stronger foundation for dental implants.
Why Are Sinus Lifts Necessary for Dental Implants?
For successful dental implants, a stable and sufficient amount of bone is essential to hold the implant securely in place. In the upper jaw, the bone is naturally thinner than in other areas of the mouth, and the proximity of the sinus cavities adds an extra challenge.
If there isn’t enough bone height or strength, the implant may not properly integrate with the bone, leading to implant failure. A sinus lift increases the amount of bone available, ensuring that the implant has a secure and lasting foundation.
Who Needs a Sinus Lift?
Lake Tapps residents who have experienced bone loss in the upper jaw are likely candidates for a sinus lift. Common reasons for needing a sinus lift include:
Missing upper molars or premolars
Long-term tooth loss causing bone deterioration
Natural bone thinning due to aging
Previous tooth extractions that led to bone loss
Your dental specialist will use imaging technology to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine if a sinus lift is necessary before proceeding with dental implants.
What to Expect During a Sinus Lift Procedure
A sinus lift is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation. The specialist will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the sinus membrane. After lifting the membrane, bone graft material is placed in the area, and the incision is closed with stitches.
The healing process can take several months as the new bone integrates with the existing jawbone. Once the graft has fully healed and strengthened, the dental implant can be placed with a high success rate.
Benefits of a Sinus Lift
Undergoing a sinus lift offers several advantages for patients considering dental implants:
Improved bone support for implants
Increased success rate of dental implants
Enhanced comfort and functionality
Preservation of facial structure and bone density
A successful sinus lift helps create a secure foundation for dental implants, leading to a more natural feel and long-term durability.
Need More Information About Sinus Lifts and Dental Implants?
If you’re considering dental implants and think you might need a sinus lift, Auburn Periodontics and Implantology can help. Our experienced team can assess your dental health and recommend the best approach for a successful outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how a sinus lift can improve your dental implant experience.
Learn why sinus lifts are essential for Lake Tapps residents seeking successful and lasting dental implant solutions.
03/06/2025
If you experience discomfort while chewing or notice uneven wear on your teeth, occlusal adjustment may be the solution you need. This dental procedure fine-tunes the way your teeth come together, ensuring a balanced and comfortable bite.
Eliminates High Spots
One of the primary goals of the adjustment is to remove high spots on teeth that create an uneven bite. These minor imbalances can cause discomfort, difficulty chewing, and even headaches. By carefully reshaping the enamel, your dentist can create a smoother, more even bite that improves function and comfort.
Reduces Jaw Strain
When your bite is misaligned, your jaw muscles must work harder to compensate, leading to strain and tension. Over time, this can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, causing jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening and closing your mouth. The adjustment relieves this strain by ensuring your teeth meet properly, reducing muscle fatigue and joint stress.
Prevents Excessive Wear
An unbalanced bite puts uneven pressure on certain teeth, leading to premature wear and tear. This can result in chipped, cracked, or flattened teeth over time. By correcting the alignment, occlusal adjustment distributes pressure evenly, helping preserve your natural teeth and reducing the risk of costly dental repairs in the future.
Need Occlusal Adjustment in Covington?
If you want the best care for your teeth, make an appointment with Auburn Periodontics and Implants. We can walk you through the process so you know exactly what to expect. You can also count on our dental clinic for a wide variety of other services, including periodontics and dental implants. Whatever your needs, we’re here to help! Contact us today for insurance coverage information or to schedule a consultation.
If you’ve been having trouble with chewing, you might need a little bit of help. Learn about occlusal adjustment and how it can change your life.
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Locally owned and operated Auburn Periodontics & Implants offers exceptional dental and periodontal services in Auburn and the surrounding area. Providing superior periodontics and dental implants for almost 40 years, just one visit will demonstrate why so many consider our Auburn dentistry and periodontics office to be the premier dental services provider in the area. Bring your dental challenges to us and get the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted!
Expert Auburn Dentistry and Periodontics
The exceptional staff of Auburn Periodontics & Implants takes great pride in giving patients a whole new reason to smile. Constantly striving to provide the best possible dental care, we’re here to help whether you need to replace a tooth with a dental implant, manage gum disease or just schedule a routine cleaning. No two smiles are alike, and our staff customizes your treatment plan to your specific goals and budget to consistently provide the highest-quality care and results.
Meet Dr. Haynes & His Team
The third periodontist to carry on the long and successful history of Auburn Periodontics & Implants, Dr. Haynes and his exceptional team are dedicated to providing each patient with personalized and compassionate dental care. When you walk into the clinic, you’ll immediately feel the love. The team has made this Auburn dental practice their lives’ work, and they’re passionate about working with you to create a personalized dental servicesplan to reach your personal dental goals.
Our Mission: Patients Always First
The simple but powerful mission of Auburn Periodontics & Implants is unchanged since we first opened our doors in 1981: to provide every Auburn dentistry and periodontics patient with the most compassionate, high-quality, personalized periodontal treatment and care anywhere. We would love to serve you!
