When we are young, the loss of dental pieces is a phase on the road to adulthood. However, when we grow up, it is a traumatic and irreversible experience with long-term consequences both aesthetic and functional in the mouth, which can affect self-esteem.
There are a number of reasons that can lead to loss of teeth in adulthood. You can lose teeth in an accident or as a result of a disease such as diabetes. However, one of the main causes of the loss of teeth is a serious and irreversible gingival disease (periodontitis).
Why Can Gingival Disease Cause the Loss of Teeth?
Having healthy gums is of crucial importance for the health of your teeth. Your jaw keeps each tooth fixed in its socket. Therefore, it is very important that this bone is not exposed to bacteria or infections that can cause damage and even the loss of teeth. Your gums are a protective barrier between the tooth and the bacterial plaque of the mouth.
The first phase of gingival disease begins with the accumulation of bacterial plaque capable of irritating the gums. This causes them to redden and swell and bleed when you brush your teeth or floss. Those are the signs of the first phase of gingival disease: gingivitis. If left untreated, it can develop until it reaches the second phase, which is irreversible: periodontitis and the possible loss of teeth.
This occurs because the accumulation of bacterial plaque can cause the gums to separate from the tooth, which creates small spaces where more plaque can accumulate and cause infections. If left untreated, these infections can affect the bone and gum tissues that support the structure of the teeth. If it is damaged, the teeth begin to move. The key to preventing the loss of teeth caused by periodontitis is not to let the disease progress so much.
Regular check-ups with the dentist are of vital importance since, unlike tooth sensitivity or discomfort, gingival disease is not always painful. In fact, to begin with, you may not even notice that you have it, but a professional exam can detect the first signs so you can take the necessary steps to treat gingival disease before it gets worse. This is especially important if you smoke, since tobacco can mask the signs of gingival disease.
If your dentist detects that you have persistent gingival problems or that they get worse, you may be advised to use the 0.2% intensive treatment mouthwash. It has been clinically proven to be an antiseptic to prevent and help treat gingivitis. It contains an active antimicrobial ingredient called chlorhexidine, which inhibits the formation of bacterial plaque and gives your gums the chance to heal. If used early, before gingivitis progresses too much, it can help prevent periodontitis of rapid progression.
If you would like to schedule a consultation at Ballantyne Family Dental for your next dental cleaning, please contact Dr. Vinita Patel, our general dentist in Charlotte, NC today!
