Review for Dr. Kim -
I recently switched from a PPO to an HMO dentist and had my first visit with Dr. Kim. During this appointment, she diagnosed me with stage 2 periodontal disease and recommended two rounds of deep cleanings followed by maintenance visits every 3-4 months.
This diagnosis came as a surprise, as I've maintained consistent dental care for years with healthy gum measurements--typically 2s and 3s--and no history of periodontal disease. During the gum exam with Dr. Kim, the probing felt unusually forceful, as if the instrument was being pushed down into the gums rather than gently guided. It was noticeably painful, unlike any prior exams I've had. Despite this, I was suddenly told I had several 4s and 5s.
I contacted my previous dentist to confirm, and they verified I had no record or signs of gum disease. When I shared this with Dr. Kim, she suggested my previous dentist might have "left my condition untreated." She then offered to refer me to one of her periodontist colleagues for a second opinion and said she would not bill me for the exam or X-rays. While that might appear considerate, it raised further concerns about the accuracy and confidence behind her findings.
While differing clinical opinions can occur, the painful probing technique, abrupt and severe diagnosis, and insinuation that my prior dentist may have been negligent--all without reviewing my records--left me questioning the integrity of the evaluation.
Patients deserve careful, transparent, and evidence-based care. I strongly recommend that anyone visiting Dr. Kim ask for clear explanations, request to see measurements recorded in real time, and consider an independent second opinion before agreeing to extensive treatment.
Update: I went back to old dentist Ovation Dental and received an exam and cleaning, my gum exams were 2s, and 3s with a few 4s. Not nearly as severe.
Additional Note on Billing Conduct
After the appointment, Dr. Kim stated that I would not be billed for the exam or X-rays. Despite this assurance, my insurance later sent a benefits statement showing that her office submitted a claim for those same services. This discrepancy between what was told to me and what was billed adds another layer of concern regarding transparency and practice ethics. read more
