Gum Disease Can Lead to Tooth Loss. Find Out How
A very common problem among many Americans, gum disease affects about 75 percent of the country according to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). You might not know it but gum disease can lead to tooth loss and several other serious conditions when left untreated. Read on as we look a little closer into this dental problem.
Spotting Gum Disease
A very common first sign of gum disease is inflammation of the gums, a condition known as gingivitis. This is marked by red, swollen gums and can cause gums to bleed especially during brushing. Gingivitis usually causes little to no discomfort, making it hard to recognize.
If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, which is considered a serious form of gum disease. Usually, the initial signs of gum disease include increased gum bleeding, gum recession (which makes your teeth appear longer, and bad breath being missed.
Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
Gum disease begins with plaque buildup that causes harmful bacteria to grow in the mouth. If not removed, it can spread below the gum line, weakening the bones and tissues that support the teeth. Advanced gum disease can cause teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.
Preventing and Treating Gum Disease
Plaque in the teeth starts to harden within 48 hours and will become tartar in just 10 days. With good oral care comprised of regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings by a reputable dentist, gum disease can be prevented.
If you are diagnosed with gum disease, it is best to get it treated immediately. Scaling and root planning is a non-surgical procedure that effectively removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. There are cases where oral surgery might be necessary to access the area below the gum line for cleaning.
Losing a Tooth
Gum disease is the number cause of tooth loss. There are many options for replacing teeth, though. This includes dental implants that directly attach to the jawbone, stimulating the biting pressure of natural teeth. Another is crowned which blends in with the natural teeth.
Gum disease Dentist The Colony TX
Indeed, gum disease is dangerous when left untreated. Fortunately, it can be prevented with good oral hygiene. Make sure that you brush and floss daily, and that you do regular visits to your dentist for professional cleanings. If you have other concerns about gum disease and tooth loss, talk to your dentist about it.
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