Periodontics in La Jolla, San Diego
Precision Periodontal Medicine Focused on Whole‑Body Health
Periodontics is about far more than treating gum disease. It is about restoring stability to the foundation that supports your teeth, your immune system, and your long-term health.
At La Jolla Dental Wellness, periodontal care is approached through a biologically guided lens. Inflammation control, tissue regeneration, and immune balance guide every decision. The goal is not simply to reduce pockets or manage symptoms, but to create a healthy oral environment that supports the body as a whole.
If you are seeking advanced periodontics in La Jolla or San Diego, delivered with precision and respect for your biology, you are in the right place.
What Periodontics Treats and Why It Matters
Periodontics focuses on the health of the periodontium, the complex system of gum tissue, bone, and ligaments that anchors your teeth in place.
When this system becomes inflamed or infected, it can lead to:
- ~ Bleeding or swollen gums
- ~ Gum recession
- ~ Bone loss around teeth
- ~ Chronic bad breath
- ~ Tooth mobility or tooth loss
A Biologically Guided Approach to Periodontal Care
Most periodontal treatment begins with a diagnosis label. Our approach begins with you.
Every periodontal evaluation considers:
- ~ Your inflammatory response and healing capacity
- ~ Tissue quality and structural support
- ~ Oral microbiome balance
- ~ Medical history and immune health
- ~ Long-term functional and aesthetic goals
Treatment is selected to support regeneration and equilibrium whenever possible, rather than aggressive tissue removal. Minimally invasive techniques are favored when they provide predictable, biologically supportive outcomes.
Periodontal Services Offered in La Jolla
Our periodontal services are designed to address both active disease and long-term stability, using modern regenerative tools where appropriate.
Gum Disease Treatment and Periodontal Therapy
Treatment for periodontal disease is customized based on severity, tissue response, and risk factors. Care may include non-surgical periodontal therapy, targeted bacterial reduction, and structured maintenance to control inflammation over time.
Laser Gum Disease Treatment
Laser-assisted periodontal therapy allows for precise removal of diseased tissue while preserving healthy structures. This approach can reduce trauma, minimize post-treatment discomfort, and support faster healing compared to traditional surgical techniques.
Laser gum disease treatment is often ideal for patients seeking minimally invasive periodontal care in La Jolla.
Periodontal Maintenance
For patients with a history of gum disease, periodontal maintenance cleanings are essential. These visits focus on controlling inflammation, monitoring tissue stability, and preventing disease recurrence.
Patients enrolled in our La Jolla Dental Perio Plan receive structured periodontal maintenance as part of their long-term care strategy.
Soft Tissue Treatment and Gum Recession Care
Soft tissue procedures address gum recession, uneven tissue contours, and areas where exposed root surfaces compromise comfort or aesthetics. When appropriate, minimally invasive techniques are used to reposition and stabilize gum tissue while preserving blood supply.
Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening reshapes the gum and bone architecture to expose more of the natural tooth structure. This procedure may be recommended for restorative dentistry, fracture repair, or aesthetic balance.
Regenerative Support: PRF and Ozone Therapy
Biologic agents such as Platelet Rich Fibrin and ozone therapy may be incorporated to support healing and tissue regeneration. These tools are used selectively, based on individual biology and treatment goals, not as routine add-ons.
Care Led by a Board‑Certified Periodontist
Your periodontal care is guided by Dr. Hyung Jin Bae, a Board Certified periodontist with advanced training in laser-assisted regenerative procedures and dental implant surgery.
Dr. Bae completed his education at Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania, with additional post-doctoral training at Harvard University. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Fellow of the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes:
- ~ Minimally invasive treatment whenever possible
- ~ Preservation of natural tissue architecture
- ~ Preservation of natural tissue architecture
- ~ Long-term periodontal stability rather than short-term intervention
Dr. Bae works closely with the restorative team to ensure periodontal care is fully integrated into each patient’s overall treatment plan.
Who Benefits Most From Periodontal Care
Periodontal care is especially important for patients who:
- ~ Have bleeding gums, gum recession, or bone loss
- ~ Have been told they need deep cleanings or gum surgery
- ~ Are preparing for dental implants or complex restorations
- ~ Have medical conditions influenced by chronic inflammation
- ~ Prefer conservative, biologically supportive treatment options
If you value prevention, longevity, and a thoughtful approach to health, periodontal care can play a central role in protecting your smile and your wellbeing.
Insurance, Financing, and Membership Options
La Jolla Dental Wellness is an out-of-network, fee-for-service practice. This allows treatment decisions to be guided by health, not insurance limitations.
- We work with most PPO insurance plans and file claims on your behalf for reimbursement.
- Full payment is due at the time of service.
- We do not accept Medicare, Medi-Cal, or HMO plans.
Flexible Financing
Monthly payment options are available through Cherry and CareCredit, including qualifying interest-free plans.
Periodontal Membership Plan
Our La Jolla Dental Perio Plan includes periodontal maintenance cleanings, exams, X-rays, and savings on additional treatment. This option is ideal for patients managing gum disease long-term without traditional insurance.
Meet Our
La Jolla Dentists
Dr. Bo Ah Kim
Dr. Bo Ah Kim pursued her passion for dentistry at Columbia University, College of Dental Medicine in New York City, earning her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2007. Her training in general dentistry equips her with the skills to perform a broad range of procedures from basic fillings and crowns to complex full mouth reconstructions and TMJ Botox injections. Dr. Kim is renowned for her dedication to patient care, making communication and comfort the cornerstones of her practice.
Dr. Hyung Jin Bae
Dr. Hyung Jin Bae is a distinguished, board-certified periodontist since 2012, specializing in dental implant surgeries and laser-assisted regenerative procedures. A graduate of Columbia University and the University of Pennsylvania, with additional post-doctoral training at Harvard University, Dr. Bae is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and a Fellow of the Institute for Advanced Laser Dentistry. His expertise encompasses a broad range of minimally invasive techniques that emphasize patient-specific, regenerative outcomes.
Accreditations
Wonderful Words from our Patients
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
~ Alice Hou
~ Gabrielle Breton Leduc
Visit La Jolla Dental Wellness Center
Hours
Monday – Tuesday 9am-5pm
Wednesday – CLOSED
Thursday – Friday 9am-5pm
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What is the difference between a dentist and a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who has completed several additional years of specialized training focused on gum health, bone support, and the structures that hold teeth in place. Periodontists treat advanced gum disease, manage bone loss, perform regenerative procedures, and prepare the mouth for implants or complex restorative care.
How do I know if I need periodontal treatment?
Common signs include bleeding gums, gum recession, chronic bad breath, loose teeth, or being told you need deep cleanings. Some patients have periodontal disease with very few symptoms, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is important.
Is laser gum disease treatment effective?
Laser gum disease treatment can be very effective for the right candidates. It allows for targeted removal of diseased tissue while preserving healthy structures. Your periodontist will determine whether laser therapy is appropriate based on tissue condition, bone support, and overall health.
Does periodontal treatment hurt?
Comfort varies depending on the type of treatment and individual sensitivity. Most periodontal procedures are performed with local anesthesia, and minimally invasive techniques are used whenever possible to reduce discomfort and recovery time.
How often will I need periodontal maintenance cleanings?
Comfort varies depending on the type of treatment and individual sensitivity. Most periodontal procedures are performed with local anesthesia, and minimally invasive techniques are used whenever possible to reduce discomfort and recovery time.
Can gum disease affect my overall health?
Yes. Research has shown links between periodontal inflammation and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and immune system stress. Treating gum disease helps reduce chronic inflammation and supports overall health.
Will my insurance cover periodontal treatment?
Coverage varies by plan. While the practice is out-of-network, claims are filed on your behalf so you can receive reimbursement from your PPO plan when applicable.
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
Patients without insurance often choose a membership plan or monthly financing options. These can make ongoing periodontal care more predictable and manageable.
Periodontics in La Jolla and Greater San Diego
La Jolla Dental Wellness is conveniently located in La Jolla within the XiMed Medical Center on the campus of Scripps Memorial Hospital, making it easily accessible for patients throughout coastal and central San Diego.
Our location is well suited for patients traveling from:
- La Jolla Village and UTC
- Torrey Pines and Del Mar
- Pacific Beach and Clairemont
- Mission Bay and coastal San Diego communities
The office is easily reached via Interstate 5, Interstate 805, and major surface roads such as Genesee Avenue. On-site parking and elevator access make visits straightforward for patients with mobility concerns or medical needs.
Many patients choose our office because periodontal care is coordinated within a medical campus environment, supporting collaboration with physicians and specialists when needed. This setting is especially valuable for patients preparing for medical procedures or managing chronic health conditions.
If you are searching for periodontics near La Jolla, gum disease treatment in San Diego, or a periodontist accessible from multiple coastal and central routes, our location offers both convenience and clinical depth.
Schedule a Periodontal Consultation
If you are looking for thoughtful, biologically guided periodontics in La Jolla, we invite you to schedule a consultation.
Our team will take the time to understand your health, explain your options clearly, and design a plan that supports lasting periodontal stability.
Call 858-558-1946 or request an appointment today to take the next step toward a healthier foundation for your smile.