Periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. This oral condition negatively affects one in every two Americans. Gum disease is commonly referred to as the silent disease because symptoms often go unnoticed. The most effective way to identify gum disease is to attend regular dental checkups with Dr. Jack Haney in Knoxville, TN every six months. If he detects signs of periodontal disease, Dr. Haney will recommend the appropriate treatment. Although this condition is irreversible, symptoms can be managed through routine cleanings and dental visits. We provide gum treatment through scaling and root planing. This non-surgical procedure removes harmful substances that ruin oral health. For severe cases, Dr. Haney may refer patients to a periodontist for gum grafting or other surgical procedures.

If you believe you suffer from periodontal disease, call 865-693-6886 to schedule an appointment with Knoxville, TN dentist Dr. Haney to undergo your gum treatment.

Periodontal Disease Symptoms

There are two forms of gum disease: gingivitis (mild) and periodontitis (severe). Gingivitis is common and can be reversed with proper professional cleanings and routine at-home care.

Common gingivitis symptoms include:

  • Red, swollen, tender gums
  • Frequent bleeding
  • Bad breath

When the disease remains untreated, it progresses to periodontitis. There is no cure for this severe stage, however Dr. Haney provides gum therapy to repair oral health and manage the symptoms.

Periodontitis symptoms include:

  • Tooth loss
  • Loose teeth
  • Gum recession

What Causes Gum Disease?

The main cause of periodontal disease is poor oral health. Patients who fail to attend biannual dental checkups and cleanings often unknowingly let their disease worsen. Dark, moist, warm places, such as your mouth, are ideal conditions for bacterial growth. The only effective way to remove bacteria is regular brushing and flossing. Dr. Haney encourages twice-daily brushing and flossing so that periodontal health remains intact.  However, when this isn’t done, bacteria accumulate to form plaque, which hardens to form tartar. The substances are responsible for ruining periodontal health and result in gum disease.

Periodontal disease has been linked with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and an increased risk for stroke. In pregnant women, gum disease has been linked to low birth weight and premature birth.

Smokers and diabetics are at a higher risk of developing gum disease. As are pregnant women, due to their increased hormonal levels. Other risk factors include extreme stress levels, certain medications, and genetic factors.

Non-Surgical Gum Treatment

Through scaling and root planing, Dr. Haney removes plaque and tartar to restore oral health. The first step is to remove harmful substances through scaling. He cleans below and above the gum line, as well as the bottom of deep periodontal pockets. Next, he performs root planing. During this step, he smooths rough tooth roots so that the gums will properly reattach to teeth.

After gum treatment, Dr. Haney recommends that you attend regular dental visits, so he can monitor periodontal health. In most cases, there isn’t the need for further treatment. It’s important that patients implement good oral health habits after receiving gum treatment. This includes routine visits with Dr. Haney, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing after each meal, and using a daily antibacterial mouthwash to remove bacteria and prevent plaque and tartar development.

For more information about gum treatment in Knoxville, TN, call 865-693-6886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Haney today.