How Long Can You Keep Your Teeth With Periodontal Disease
How long can you keep your teeth with periodontal disease? Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a severe infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth that can lead to a significant destruction of the periodontium (the tissues that support the teeth).
- If left untreated, it can even cause tooth loss. In general, how long you can keep your teeth with periodontal disease depends on various factors, such as your overall health, how advanced your condition is at diagnosis, and how well you adhere to a treatment plan prescribed by your dentist or periodontist.
Regular professional cleanings are essential for controlling symptoms and preventing further damage when it comes to managing periodontal disease.
Professional cleanings help to remove hard deposits called tartar or calculus from the surfaces of your teeth and gums.
Regularly scheduled cleanings are typically recommended every three to four months if you have mild periodontitis or every one to two months if you have moderate-to-severe periodontitis.
Without regular cleanings and good oral hygiene habits at home, plaque deposits will accumulate around the gum line leading to further destruction of the gum tissues and erosion of the supporting bone structure around your teeth.
How Long Can You Keep Your Teeth With Periodontal Disease
What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth, gums and other supporting structures. It occurs when bacteria in plaque accumulate around the gum line and cause inflammation.
Without regular professional cleanings and good oral hygiene habits at home, plaque can spread below the gum line leading to the destruction of the periodontium (the tissues that support the teeth).
The duration of periodontal disease
1. Without treatment, the bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease can cause further destruction of the gums, bone, and teeth leading to severe complications.
2. Regular professional cleanings are essential for controlling symptoms and preventing further damage.
3. Professional cleanings help remove plaque buildup and tartar that cannot be removed with brushing and flossing.
4. Besides professional cleanings, good oral hygiene habits at home are essential for controlling periodontal disease.
5. Without regular treatment and prevention, periodontal disease can worsen over time, leading to an increased risk of tooth loss and other serious complications.
Understanding the risks associated with periodontal disease and taking steps to prevent it can help keep your teeth for a lifetime. Proactive preventive care is the best way to ensure your smile stays healthy for years.
Symptoms
1. Swollen, red gums
2. Bad breath or taste in your mouth that won’t go away
3. Receding gums
4. Loose or shifting teeth
5. Pus between the teeth and gums
6. Changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
The causes of periodontal disease
- Poor oral hygiene habits: Not brushing and flossing your teeth daily can lead to plaque buildup, which can then cause periodontal disease.
- Smoking and other tobacco use: Tobacco use has been linked to an increased risk of developing periodontal disease and worsening symptoms.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be more susceptible to periodontal disease due to genetic predisposition.
- Certain medications: Some medications have been linked to an increased risk of developing periodontal disease, such as those that cause dry mouth or decrease saliva production.
- Stress and/or illness: Stress and certain diseases can weaken the body’s natural defences, making it more likely for bacteria to enter the mouth and lead to periodontal disease.
By understanding the risk factors associated with periodontal disease, you can take steps to reduce your chances of developing this severe infection.
Complications
Tooth loss: Without treatment, periodontal disease can cause severe tooth loss due to the destruction of the periodontium (the tissues that support the teeth).
Gum tissue recession: In advanced cases of periodontal disease, gum tissue may recede away from the teeth leading to increased sensitivity and an unattractive smile.
Bone loss: In the most serious cases, periodontal disease can cause bone loss around teeth leading to an uneven bite and potential tooth loss if left untreated.
Increased risk for other diseases: Studies have shown that individuals with periodontal disease are at an increased risk of developing certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.
By understanding the potential complications of periodontal disease, it is essential to take steps to prevent this serious infection from developing in the first place.
FAQs
Can I keep my teeth if I have periodontal disease?
It is possible to keep your teeth if you have periodontal disease. With regular professional cleanings and good oral hygiene habits at home, it is possible to prevent further damage from the bacteria and inflammation associated with periodontal disease. It is important to talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about what steps you can take to keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime.
How long will it take to treat periodontal disease?
The length of time needed to treat the periodontal disease can vary depending on the extent of the infection and how well you respond to treatment. Your dentist or dental hygienist can provide you with more specific information regarding the treatment timeline for your case.
Will removing teeth stop periodontal disease?
Removing teeth is not usually recommended as the first defence against periodontal disease. While it can stop the progression of the disease in that particular tooth, other teeth may still be affected by periodontal disease. The best way to prevent and treat this infection is with preventive care, regular cleanings, and good oral hygiene habits at home.
Can you live a healthy life with periodontal disease?
Yes, it is possible to lead a healthy life with periodontal disease. It is important to talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about how best to manage the infection and keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. With regular visits and diligent care at home, you can maintain a healthy smile for many years.
How often should you go to the dentist if you have periodontal disease?
If you have periodontal disease, you must talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about how often you should receive professional cleanings. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need more frequent visits to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Adults should visit their dentist at least once every six months for preventive care and professional cleanings.
Conclusion:
Periodontal disease can cause severe complications if left untreated, so it is essential to understand the risk factors and take steps to prevent this infection from developing. Regular preventive care visits and professional cleanings are vital in managing periodontal disease and maintaining a healthy smile.