Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. It is a severe infection of the gums and tissues. It supports and surrounds the teeth. Bacteria cause plaque build-up on the teeth. It is one of the most common dental problems in adults. 

If not treated, it can lead to uncomfortable symptoms. These are bad breath, bleeding gums, loose teeth, and eventually, tooth loss.

• There are several types of periodontal disease, each with its symptoms and treatment options. 

The key to treating gum disease successfully is early diagnosis and regular checkups with your dentist or dental hygienist to ensure that the condition does not progress further. 

• Some of the most common treatments for periodontal disease include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and in some cases, surgery.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of periodontal disease, please contact your dentist or dental hygienist right away to begin treatment. 

With proper care and regular checkups, you can keep your teeth healthy and avoid the discomfort of gum disease.

Causes of periodontal disease 

Periodontal disease can be caused by the following: 

• Poor oral hygiene 
• Certain medications or health conditions 
• Smoking or other tobacco use 
• Genetic factors
• Poor diet 

Stages of periodontal disease

Stages of periodontal disease are also determined by severity, ranging from mild to severe. The most common form of periodontal disease is gingivitis. It occurs when plaque and bacteria accumulate on the teeth. 

Left untreated, this can lead to more advanced periodontal disease. That advanced form is known as periodontitis or aggressive periodontitis.

Complications of periodontal disease

Some of the complications associated with periodontal disease include: 

1. Tooth loss

Periodontal disease can damage the gums, teeth, and supporting bone tissue. It can ultimately lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

2. Recurring infections or inflammation

Over time, chronic exposure to bacteria from plaque can lead to inflammation and infection of the gums. It can also effects surrounding tissues. This may cause symptoms. These symptoms are swollen, tender gums, bad breath, and bleeding when flossing or brushing.

3. Damage to surrounding bone and tissue

In more severe cases of periodontal disease, the infection may spread beyond the gum tissue. It will damage other structures around the teeth. These are bone and connective tissue. This can lead to tooth mobility, loose teeth, and even jawbone loss.

4. Difficulty chewing or swallowing

As the infection spreads and damages surrounding bone tissue, it can compromise the ability of the teeth to function properly. As a result, it causes pain and difficulty with chewing or eating certain foods. This may also lead to nutritional deficiencies if proper nutrition is not maintained.

Treatment 

Various treatment options are available for periodontal disease. It depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Some of the most common treatments include scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and in some cases, surgical procedures. 

1. Scaling and root planing involves removing calculus and plaque below the gum line. It will help to reduce inflammation and infection.

2. Antibiotics help fight infection. It will reduce inflammation in the gums.

3. Surgery may also be necessary. It can be done in more severe cases of periodontal disease to repair damaged gum tissue or remove diseased tissue.

It is important to note that treatment is only effective if you maintain good oral hygiene habits. 

You should visit your dentist regularly for checkups. Be sure to ask your dentist or dental hygienist about the best treatment plan for your particular needs.

How long can you keep your teeth with periodontal disease?

• The length of time you can keep your teeth with periodontal disease will depend on the severity. It also depends on the stage of the condition and how well you take care of your oral hygiene. 

• Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. It is even essential when dealing with periodontal disease.

• If you follow your dentist’s advice and take proper care of your teeth, it may be possible to keep them longer.

However, in some cases, periodontal disease can progress rapidly. It also spreads when you take proper treatment. It will make it more challenging to maintain healthy teeth.

It is essential to consult with your dentist if you are concerned about the progression of your periodontal disease.

 They can assess the condition. They will develop an appropriate treatment plan. That plan will help to manage it. You will maintain healthy teeth for as long as possible.

• FAQs

At what stage of periodontal disease do you lose teeth?

You will lose teeth in the most advanced stages of periodontal disease, known as periodontitis or aggressive periodontitis. When left untreated, the infection and inflammation caused by periodontal disease can spread beyond the gum tissue.

It will damage other structures around the teeth, such as bone and connective tissue. This can weaken the teeth’ attachment to the gums. As a result, it will cause them to lose or fall out.

Do you lose all your teeth with periodontal disease?

Not necessarily. In some cases, only a few teeth may be affected by periodontal disease, while others remain healthy. However, if left untreated or not managed properly, the infection and inflammation can spread to other teeth. It will cause them to become loose or fall out.

Can loose teeth from periodontal disease be saved?

Sometimes, it may be possible to save loose teeth caused by periodontal disease. This will depend on the severity of the condition and how well you care for your teeth and gums. If caught early, your dentist may be able to use a variety of treatments. These are scaling and root planning, antibiotics, or even surgery. It will help to save your teeth and restore health to your gums.

However, in more advanced cases where there is significant bone loss, and the teeth are very loose, it may be necessary to remove them. Your dentist will be able to assess the condition of your teeth. It will determine if they can be saved or need to be removed.

Does removing teeth fix periodontal disease?

Removing teeth does not necessarily fix periodontal disease. The infection and inflammation caused by the condition will still need to be treated. They should be treated after the loose or decayed teeth have been removed. Your dentist may recommend various treatments. It includes scaling and root planing, antibiotics, or even surgery in more severe cases.

Can you stop periodontitis from progressing?

In most cases, periodontitis can be stopped from progressing. It can be done by treating the infection and inflammation through proper dental care. 

Good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly can help to prevent periodontal disease from getting worse. It is also essential to catch any signs of gum disease early. In this way, you will seek help and treatment when needed.

Conclusion

Having periodontal disease does not necessarily mean that you will lose your teeth. The extent of the condition and how well you take care of your oral hygiene can help determine whether your teeth can be saved. I hope this information is helpful, and I wish you all the best with your dental health.