The Link Between Gum Disease and Tooth Loss

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Periodontal disease is a widespread and common dental health problem. What begins as a minor dental issue can soon develop into gum disease (periodontitis). Without treatment, many patients can develop adult tooth loss. Fortunately, there are options available to address dental disease and restore missing teeth.

Periodontal Disease and Missing Teeth

How does poor gum health cause tooth loss? Gum disease forms when the gums pull away from the teeth as a result of inflammation. Pockets then form at the gum line, which bacteria infiltrate resulting in periodontal disease. Over time, the disease can progress to an advanced stage known as periodontitis. The connective tissue between the teeth and gums actually dissolves, leading to loose teeth and eventually, tooth loss. To maintain the health and beauty of your smile, you must seek treatment for periodontal issues, which may include a scaling or root planing (deep cleaning) or laser-assisted periodontal treatment.

Restoring Smiles with Dental Implants

Once your gums are free of dental disease, you may benefit from replacing lost teeth with dental implants. We will insert biocompatible titanium posts into your jaw, which bond with the bone tissue. After the area heals, we will place a restoration onto the implant. This may be a crown, or we can use several posts to secure dentures or a dental bridge. Dental implants are often natural looking and long lasting. If you have any questions about our gum treatments or the dental implant process, then please contact our office today for a consultation.

ABOUT YOUR SAN DIEGO PERIODONTIST:

To learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life, subscribe to this blog, and visit Dr. Kania for a consultation. As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania is specially qualified to diagnose and treat issues concerning periodontal tissue and the supportive structures of a patient’s smile, as well as place dental implants to restore teeth lost to dental disease or trauma. To seek Dr. Kania’s expertise, visit our office or contact us today at (760) 642-0711.