Cavities are generally not the prime reason for loss of teeth. A person with tooth decay will often know there is a problem before major damage occurs. With gum disease, it is a different story. This is the leading cause of tooth loss and that is because it can be painless even up to the point of losing your teeth. If your gums bleed when you floss or brush or you have loose teeth, please call us immediately. Gum disease has often been corrected with surgery, but our office also provides nonsurgical methods to correct the problem.
Gum Disease Contributes to Other Serious
Health Problems
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that could result in tooth loss. However, the latest medical research has evidence that there is a link between heart disease, stroke, and gum disease. With an estimated 8 out of 10 people in the U.S. with this dental condition, most dentists consider this to be epidemic. As the bacteria from the infected gums move in the bloodstream to every part of the body, this can create very serious health conditions, especially in the heart. As heart disease and stroke can be fatal, gum disease is a critical problem that needs to be stopped.
What Can Be Done to Stop the
ProblemIn advanced cases, surgery is the treatment for gum infections and has a very high success rate. In less severe cases, nonsurgical methods can be used. When combined with a patient’s better dental care, the spread of the infection can be halted. Both of these treatments have coverage with most dental insurance policies.
When a Tooth is Lost
Many may think that losing a tooth is no reason to have concern, but losing even one tooth is the start of other teeth shifting and moving. This affects chewing, which alters your ability to get nutrients out of meals. As it is more difficult to chew with fewer teeth, you may start to eat softer foods, which could result in weight gain. Your face may change shape, making you look years older than your age, and speech may no longer be clear. Replacement of the tooth is the best solution. We offer dental implants for as many teeth as you need. They are so natural looking, even a dentist can hardly tell the difference between a real tooth and an implant.
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