Kirkland, WA, area dentist describes the symptoms of periodontal disease and the importance of treating it

Patients are often told to take care of their smiles to avoid the development and progression of gum disease. But what is gum disease, and how do you know if you have it? What can be done to keep the smile healthy and prevent this condition? Patients in the Kirkland, WA area who are concerned about their oral health and want to learn more about treating periodontal disease can book a consultation visit and initial evaluation with the team at Kingsgate Dental.

What is gum disease?

Understanding gum disease is the first step in learning how to prevent and treat it. Gum disease often referred to by dental professionals as periodontal disease, is an infection. It starts in the soft tissues of the gums and can progress into the later stages if left untreated. The early stages of gum disease include symptoms such as:

• Bleeding of the gums
• Red, swollen gum tissues
• Persistent bad breath
• Shrinking gum tissues

If periodontal disease is not detected and treated, it can become a more serious problem and cause irreversible damage to the smile. This is why it is incredibly vital that patients visit their dentist regularly and also book an appointment when changes occur to the smile’s health and appearance.

Why is it important to treat periodontal disease?

By diagnosing and treating periodontal disease in the earliest stages, patients improve their chances of combating the infection and keeping their smile healthy. If periodontal disease is left untreated, it can progress further and become a much bigger problem, resulting in the loss of gum tissue, bone, and teeth. Periodontal disease cannot be cured, only controlled, which also makes it essential that patients are proactive in protecting their smile with good oral health habits and regular dental visits.

Discuss your needs with a quality dental provider

Kirkland, WI patients who suspect the early symptoms of gum disease will need to speak to a dentist to get a proper diagnosis of their condition and discuss treatment options. Dr. Ann Kelley and her associates at Kingsgate Dental can be reached by calling (425) 385-0080 and booking an appointment at the office at 12308 NE 114th Street. New and current patients are welcome.

Ann Kelley, DDS

Dr. Ann Kelley is a graduate of the Creighton University School of Dentistry in Omaha, Nebraska. She highly values the comfort of her patients, and places the needs of the patient above her convenience. Her dental clinic is built to bring the best and most comfortable dental experience to all her patients. She builds relationships with her patients based on trust and always acts to safeguard this trust.