Tooth and Bone Loss
As gum disease reaches the more advanced stages, the risk of tooth loss can become very real and leave you without a solid foundation in the jaw.
Gum Disease Treatment: Preventing Tooth and Bone Loss
As gum disease reaches the more advanced stages, the risk of tooth loss can become very real. Without laser gum surgery, the natural support structures can quickly deteriorate and leave your teeth without a solid foundation in the jaw. This means that they can shift out of position and even fall out. Unfortunately, many patients do not realize the effect that this can have on their daily life. Missing teeth is much more than a cosmetic issue. It can affect your daily life in many different ways. Here are just a few reasons why patients are urged to visit their dentist before gum disease reaches this level of severity.
Eating Becomes Difficult
Loose or missing teeth can make it difficult to eat certain foods. Many patients will adapt by altering their diet to include mostly softer foods that are more easily chewed. However, this kind of diet is not always healthy and can result in conditions such as weight loss, indigestion, and malnutrition.
Your Speech is Affected
Certain letter sounds that require tongue-to-tooth contact cannot be pronounced if tooth loss occurs. Many patients often develop a lisp as well, which can be embarrassing and make it difficult to communicate.
Additionally, if tooth loss does occur, it is essential to visit your dentist to discuss dental implants and other options. When open spaces left by missing teeth are not filled, your tongue can expand to fill them. A larger, thicker tongue is harder to control and can affect your ability to speak clearly.
Bone Loss Can Occur
Without natural teeth or dental implants, your jaw bone will not receive the stimulation it needs. As a result, deterioration will likely occur. This can alter your appearance drastically. Cheeks and lips may adopt a “sunken in” appearance and make you look much older.
Getting Early Treatment for Periodontal Infection
When gum disease is treated during the earlier stages, the effects are much less drastic. If you suspect you are suffering from a periodontal infection, contact our office to schedule your consultation today!