Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of all adults in the United States have some form of periodontal disease. While it is most common in adults over the age of 30, it can affect people of all ages.
Periodontal dentistry services in Columbia, Maryland can help prevent periodontal disease or treat it if you already have it. Early signs of periodontal disease include gums that bleed easily, persistent bad breath, and gums that are red, swollen, or tender. If left untreated, periodontal disease can destroy the bone and connective tissue that support your teeth. This can lead to tooth loss.
Understanding Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which leads to gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums. Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Over time, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more serious form of periodontal disease.
If you’ve noticed your teeth becoming loose or have had teeth fall out, it’s important to see a dentist right away. They can evaluate the health of your gums and determine if periodontal disease is the cause of your tooth loss.
The Side Effects of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease can cause a number of side effects, including:
- Bad breath
- Tooth loss
- Receding gums
- Bone loss
- Painful chewing
- Sensitive teeth
- Pus around the teeth and gums
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the fit of partial dentures
Can teeth fall out from periodontal disease? Yes. In fact, periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Therefore, it’s very important to see a dentist regularly and to practice good oral hygiene at home.
Treatment for Periodontal Disease
If you think you may have periodontal disease, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible so that you can begin treatment. Treatment for periodontal disease will vary depending on the severity of the condition. In the early stages of periodontal disease (gingivitis), professional cleaning may be all that is needed to reverse the condition. More advanced cases of periodontal disease (periodontitis) may require scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning) followed by medication or surgery.
These treatments can help to stop the progression of periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss. However, it is important to remember that once you have periodontal disease, it is a lifelong condition. This means that you will need to continue to see a dentist regularly and practice good oral hygiene at home to keep it under control.
The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can also give you tips on how to best care for your teeth and gums.
If you have any concerns about periodontal disease or tooth loss, be sure to talk to your dentist. They can help you determine if periodontal disease is the cause of your tooth loss and develop a treatment plan to stop its progression.
Schedule an Appointment at Columbia Smiles Today
At Columbia Smiles, we are committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain good oral health. We offer a variety of periodontal dentistry services to help prevent and treat periodontal disease. In our family-friendly office led by Dr. Michael Hsu, we provide gentle, compassionate care to patients of all ages. To learn more about periodontal disease or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 410.690.4855 or reach out to our team online.
