Periodontal Disease Diagnosis in Jackson, TN
Gum disease is one of the most common — and most preventable — dental conditions affecting adults today. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, our team is trained to detect even the earliest signs of periodontal disease so we can intervene before serious damage occurs. If you have noticed bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or tooth sensitivity, call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us to schedule an evaluation.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth. It begins when plaque — a sticky film of bacteria — builds up along and below the gumline. Without thorough brushing, flossing, and regular professional cleanings and exams, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Over time, the bacteria in plaque and tartar trigger inflammation that breaks down the gum tissue and bone anchoring your teeth in place.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It has also been linked to serious systemic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and respiratory illness — making early diagnosis and treatment critically important for your overall health, not just your smile.
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
Many patients with gum disease don’t realize they have it because the early stages are often painless. Warning signs to watch for include red, swollen, or tender gums; gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss; persistent bad breath that doesn’t resolve with brushing; gum recession that makes teeth appear longer than normal; loose or shifting teeth; and pain or sensitivity when chewing. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN promptly.
How We Diagnose Periodontal Disease
At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, periodontal diagnosis begins with a thorough visual examination of your gum tissue. Our dentists use a small periodontal probe to gently measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. Healthy gum pockets measure between one and three millimeters; deeper pockets indicate the presence of gum disease and provide valuable information about its severity. We also take digital X-rays and panoramic X-rays to assess the level of bone support around each tooth, which allows us to identify bone loss that is not visible to the naked eye.
Based on the findings of your exam, we will classify the stage and severity of your gum disease and recommend a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include professional prophylaxis, scaling and root planing, pocket irrigation, or periodontal maintenance visits. Our goal is always to treat gum disease as conservatively as possible while achieving the best outcomes for your long-term oral health.
If you are concerned about your gum health, don’t wait. Contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS today at (731) 424-2651 to schedule your periodontal evaluation in Jackson, TN.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease Diagnosis
What does a periodontal exam involve?
A periodontal exam at McLemore & McLemore, DDS includes a visual inspection of your gum tissue, probing to measure pocket depths between your teeth and gums, and digital X-rays to evaluate bone levels. The entire process is gentle and typically completed during a routine visit.
Is periodontal disease painful to diagnose?
The diagnostic process itself is not painful. Periodontal probing may cause mild sensitivity, particularly if your gums are already inflamed, but most patients find it very tolerable. If you have concerns, let our team know and we will do everything we can to keep you comfortable.
Can I have gum disease without knowing it?
Yes. Gum disease is often called a “silent” disease because it progresses without significant pain in its early stages. This is one of the most important reasons to maintain regular dental cleanings and exams at McLemore & McLemore, DDS — our team can detect gum disease before you experience noticeable symptoms.
What happens after a periodontal disease diagnosis?
After diagnosis, our team will discuss your findings and recommend a personalized treatment plan. Depending on the severity of your condition, this may include a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), pocket irrigation, or ongoing periodontal maintenance appointments to keep the disease under control.
Is gum disease linked to other health problems?
Research has established strong connections between untreated periodontal disease and conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and respiratory illness. Treating gum disease is an important part of protecting your overall health, not just your teeth and gums.
How often should I be screened for periodontal disease?
Periodontal screening should be part of every routine dental visit. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we evaluate your gum health at each appointment. Patients with a history of gum disease may require more frequent monitoring visits every three to four months.
How do I schedule a periodontal evaluation at McLemore & McLemore, DDS?
Call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our contact page to request an appointment. Our team in Jackson, TN will assess your gum health, identify any signs of disease, and build a personalized plan to restore and protect your smile.
