Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is the infection or inflammation of the gums. It’s usually caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. The early signs of gum disease are red, swollen, and bleeding gums, especially when brushing and flossing.
The earliest stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which can be prevented and reversed. However, more advanced stages cannot be reversed.
Untreated gum disease can spread to the supportive bones around the gums, making it difficult to chew and eventually leading to tooth mobility, tooth loss, or extraction.
How Is Gum Disease in Knoxville Treated?
The main goal of periodontal disease treatment is controlling the gum infection. The type of treatment varies based on the stage of gum disease. However, good oral hygiene is always the basis of a healthy smile and preventing gum disease from developing or progressing.
Your dentist in Knoxville provides oral hygiene instruction, deep cleanings, and periodontal maintenance. Scaling and root planing is a type of deep cleaning that involves removing plaque and bacteria from below the gumline and smoothing out the gum tissue so it reattaches to the teeth. Your dentist may also prescribe medications like antibiotics. Severe cases of gum disease may require surgery.
Gum Disease Prevention and Treatment in Knoxville
Have you noticed signs of gingivitis or gum disease? Call us today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Holt! Together, we can restore your periodontal health and prevent your gum disease from progressing.