Gum Disease Increases the Risk of Tooth Loss

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a gum infection that causes a number of unwanted side effects. The most common side effect of gum disease is inflammation. Inflammation is the gums’ natural reaction to the infection that develops when bacteria, plaque, and tartar build up beneath the gum line. As the gums begin to swell, they may also recede, or lift away from the teeth. All of these side effects compromise the foundation of the teeth and increase a patient’s risk of tooth loss. Restorative dentistry treatments improve the health of the gums and help patients prevent more serious oral health problems, primarily, tooth loss. Drs. Charles and Patrick Casey help patients prevent tooth loss from gum disease at their Montreal, QC practice by offering a full range of periodontal treatments that restore gum health.

Gum Disease Side Effects

Gum disease is a progressive condition that can lead to a variety of side effects. The specific side effects that are experienced by each patient will depend on how far the condition has advanced. In its earliest stages, gum disease may not produce any noticeable side effects. However, if gum disease is not diagnosed and goes untreated, it will continue to progress and side effects become more likely. The common side effects of gum disease include:

• Swelling
• Gum sensitivity
• Bleeding
• Gum recession

How Gum Disease Affects the Teeth

Gum disease compromises the health of the gums, but it also threatens the teeth. The side effects that develop as gum disease progresses can seriously impact the teeth. Gum recession is particularly dangerous for the teeth. As the gums lift away from the teeth, the teeth lose their secure foundation. In the advanced stages of gum disease, gum recession and periodontal pockets frequently lead to loose teeth. Even at this stage, it is possible to restore the health of the gums and prevent tooth loss. However, if patients neglect appropriate periodontal care, the health of the gums will continue to deteriorate and loose teeth will eventually fall out on their own or require extraction.

Preventing Tooth Loss

There is no reason that gum disease needs to result in tooth loss. There are a number of periodontal treatments that can eliminate infection and restore the health of the gums. Once the infection is treated, the gums should produce new, healthy gum tissue that will provide the teeth with proper support. Our dentists offer a full range of gum disease treatments that can address the stages of periodontal disease. We can customize a treatment plan that will meet each patient’s unique needs. Gum disease treatment options include root planing and scaling (a deep cleaning of the teeth and gums), laser gum therapy, and oral surgery.

Schedule an Appointment

The earlier that gum disease is treated, the less of an impact that it will have on a patient’s oral health. To avoid the serious complications of gum disease, including tooth loss, schedule an appointment with Dr. Charles or Patrick Casey at your earliest convenience to discuss our gum disease treatment options.