When diagnosed with periodontal disease, a common worry is, “Will I lose my teeth if I have periodontal disease?” However, it is often possible to preserve one’s natural teeth for a significant period by promptly addressing the issue and maintaining consistent care. At Tamborello Dental Associates in Houston, we stress the importance of education and preventive measures to help patients combat gum disease and protect their smiles in the long term.
Will I Lose My Teeth If I Have Periodontal Disease?
The certainty of tooth loss due to periodontal disease is not set in stone. With proper dental treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and diligent oral hygiene practices, many individuals can effectively manage the disease in its early to moderate stages. Detecting the disease early on increases the chances of preventing tooth loss.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gums, bone, and ligaments that support the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, characterized by gum inflammation, and can progress to periodontitis, which involves the breakdown of the supporting bone and poses a risk to the teeth.
Causes of Gum Disease
The leading cause of gum disease is the buildup of plaque, a sticky bacterial film that forms on and below the gumline. Failure to remove plaque through daily brushing and flossing allows it to harden into tartar, leading to gum irritation and bacterial growth. Other contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, systemic conditions like diabetes, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, chronic stress, certain medications affecting saliva production, and more.
Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease Symptoms
Recognizing early symptoms such as redness, swelling, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, discomfort while chewing, and sensitivity to temperature changes is crucial for maintaining dental health. If any of these signs appear, it is best to seek an assessment from Tamborello Dental Associates promptly to help improve treatment outcomes.
How Long Do Teeth Last with Periodontal Disease?
The duration for which one can keep their teeth while dealing with periodontal disease varies based on factors like disease severity, timing of intervention, oral hygiene practices, lifestyle choices such as smoking and diet, and commitment to ongoing periodontal care. Early intervention in mild to moderate cases may allow individuals to retain their natural teeth for many years. Conversely, advanced periodontal disease with significant bone loss may lead to tooth loss sooner if not managed effectively.
Risk Factors
Some individuals are more prone to gum disease due to risk factors like a family history of the condition, poor diet, reduced saliva flow, teeth grinding, aging, and infrequent dental cleanings. At Tamborello Dental Associates, a thorough evaluation during preventive visits helps identify these risks, enabling the creation of personalized care plans to address the disease proactively.
How to Reverse Periodontal Disease
While advanced-stage gum disease is irreversible, early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) can be entirely reversed through professional intervention and improved hygiene practices. To prevent or reverse early gum disease, it is recommended to undergo professional deep cleaning, follow a diligent home care routine, use antibacterial mouthwash, quit smoking, and maintain regular check-up visits.
🦷 Don’t Let Gum Disease Steal Your Smile
In summary, Tamborello Dental Associates in Houston provides advanced care and personalized attention to help patients manage, treat, and prevent periodontal disease. Whether initial symptoms are emerging or a diagnosis has been confirmed, our team is committed to assisting individuals to protect their natural teeth and improve gum health in a friendly environment conveniently located to serve diverse communities in Houston. For inquiries or to schedule a periodontal evaluation, please get in touch with us by phone or through our online appointment booking system.