What Gum Disease Can Do to Your Oral Health

Gum disease may have a variety of negative effects on your oral health. Read on to learn about the effects of untreated gum disease on your oral health. Untreated gum disease might ultimately result in major complications such as loss of jawbone density and tooth loss. As a result, excellent gum care is critical.

The effects of gum disease on oral health

Note that gum disease manifests itself in different ways, ranging from mild to severe. Most importantly, gum disease is classified into two types: gingivitis and periodontitis. While both conditions are significant and need treatment, periodontitis is the more advanced form of gum disease and may result in more serious complications such as tooth loss. Some of the effects of gum disease on oral health include:

Contributes to foul breath

Having bad breath may undoubtedly create problems in relationships and other areas of life. However, from a dentist's standpoint, foul breath can be a symptom of a more serious problem. While transitory foul breath may result from consuming certain meals and beverages, persistent bad breath is often an indication of gum disease. Following that, if foul breath persists for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to see the dentist for a check-up.

Produces deep gum pockets

Deep gum pockets develop as the space between teeth and gums becomes larger. This diminishes the tooth's hold in the jawbone and could make it vulnerable to loss eventually. Additionally, very deep pockets might expose the tooth's root. In this case, the patient's dental sensitivity may be exacerbated.

Causes jaw bone loss

Gum disease can contribute to jawbone deterioration and will continue to exacerbate if teeth fall out. This may complicate the procedure of replacing teeth with dental implants and pose other oral health and aesthetic difficulties. Therefore, when dentists request dental x-rays, they routinely screen for bone loss.

Increases the likelihood of gum recession

Gum recession may develop if gum disease continues to worsen for a lengthy period. As the gum recedes, the tooth roots are exposed and susceptible to sensitivity. Gum recession may begin as a small issue, but the chances of tooth loss may also increase as it progresses.

Causes loose teeth and eventual tooth loss

Often, gum disease results in tooth loss. This is often because the gums and jawbone lack the strength and health necessary to anchor the teeth in the socket securely. According to the Centers for Disease Control, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. Without treatment, the infection may spread into the bloodstream, resulting in severe health issues.

Your gum disease prevention strategy

The most effective strategy to combat gum disease is to prevent it. Our dentist can create a customized gum disease prevention plan for you that includes a consistent oral care routine, dietary choices that will help you maintain a healthy smile, and routine check-up appointments every four to six months. Contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.thanasasdds.com or call Thanasas Family Dental Care at (248) 260-2878 for an appointment in our Troy office.

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