Knoxville, TN area dentist describes the early signs of gum disease

Gum disease and tooth decay are the two primary reasons dentists in the Knoxville, TN area encourage patients to take good care of their smile. Oral health care is essential in keeping these issues from occurring and causing irreversible damage to the teeth and gums. Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, cannot be cured; it can only controlled. Taking good care of the smile will reduce the risk of developing gum disease and therefore assist in maintaining a smile that is healthier, longer.

Many patients in and around the Knoxville, TN area who visit Sequoyah Dental Arts often ask Dr. Pablo Foncea about the early signs of gum disease. They want to know what to look for so they can receive immediate dental care to address the issues. Our team takes the time to educate patients on the indications that gum disease may be starting so that patients can receive an early diagnosis and immediate intervention to keep it from progressing further.

The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is a condition that results from infection of the gum tissue. Catching gum disease at this point allows patients to bring their smile back to health. Dr. Pablo Foncea and his team will suggest patients seek an examination if they experience any of the common signs and symptoms, which include persistent bad breath, bleeding of the gums when brushing and flossing, and swollen gum tissue. With a proper diagnosis at this point, patients can start treatment with a thorough cleaning of the gums and teeth to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar that may assist periodontal disease in continuing to develop.

Dr. Pablo Foncea and his team encourage patients to seek treatment during this early stage. Otherwise, the condition will continue to worsen and therefore turn into the later stages known as periodontitis. Periodontitis is the point at which the condition cannot be reversed. The gum tissue begins to pull away from the natural teeth, causing pockets where bacteria and plaque can accumulate. A procedure known as scaling and root planing must be done. This is an invasive treatment but is performed to achieve a healthier smile and rid the mouth of the bacteria that continues to cause damage to the bone, teeth, and soft tissues.

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