Posted on 8/15/2024 by Gwinnett Dental Implant & Periodontal Center
Gum disease is a very common problem affecting nearly half of all adults. The bacteria that cause gum disease destroy the tissues and bone holding the teeth in place, making it the leading cause of adult tooth loss.
Gum Disease Basics
Gum disease starts when plaque bacteria infect your gums. Your immune system responds by inflaming the gums to fight the bacteria. The earliest stage is gingivitis, where gums become red, swollen, and bleed when brushing. This stage of gingivitis is reversible and your last chance to stop the progression of the bacteria and tissue breakdown. Without treatment, plaque spreads down tooth roots and eats away the tissues and bone holding the teeth to the jaw. This advanced stage is periodontitis. Inflammation worsens, creating deep pockets around teeth.
How Gum Disease Loosens Teeth
As periodontitis spreads, it destroys the ligaments and bone that anchor the teeth firmly into the jaw. The pockets allow more bacteria to grow, accelerating damage. When anchoring tissues and bone are destroyed, teeth become loose, unstable, and prone to falling out. Tooth loss occurs in the late stages of gum disease.
Risk Factors for Progression
Factors putting you at higher risk for worsening gum disease and tooth loss include: Poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, medications that cause dry mouth, teeth clenching and grinding, and genetic susceptibility. The more risk factors present, the faster gum disease can progress if untreated.
Protect Your Smile
It is key to catch gum disease early and halt its progression. Be sure to brush and floss thoroughly every day and get professional cleanings every six months. Quitting smoking and managing illnesses like diabetes help minimize inflammation, as these typically drive tissue damage.
Do not wait for tooth loss to take action. Contact us when you notice irritated gums so inflammation can be controlled. With prompt treatment, gum disease can often be reversed.
Gwinnett Dental Implant & Periodontal Center
Dr. Melody J. Schiffer Dr. Gary Greenwald Dr. Andrew Kurialacherry Dr. Nisha Kancherla
Gum disease is a very common problem affecting nearly half of all adults. The bacteria that cause gum disease destroy the tissues and bone holding the teeth in place, making it the leading cause of adult tooth loss.