The Connection Between Gum Disease and Tooth Loss

Gum disease is a common oral health condition that affects many people of all ages. It is caused by a buildup of bacteria in the gums, which leads to inflammation and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to more severe stages, resulting in tooth and bone loss. The good news is that gum disease can be prevented and treated effectively. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between gum disease and tooth loss and how early detection and treatment can prevent further damage.

Understanding Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a condition that affects the gums and bone that support the teeth. Its primary cause is a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth, which can be exacerbated by poor oral hygiene practices. Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, genetic factors, and hormonal changes. Gum disease has two primary stages, gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease and is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which can result in tooth and bone loss.

The Effects of Gum Disease on Oral Health

Untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss, as well as bone loss that can impact the overall structure of the mouth. Tooth loss can make it difficult to chew, speak, and smile. It can also result in shifted teeth and jawbone deterioration. In addition, gum disease has been linked to several other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. This is because the inflammation caused by gum disease can spread throughout the body, leading to systemic health issues.

Gum Disease Treatment

The most effective way to prevent gum disease is to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting routine dental checkups and cleanings. If gum disease is detected, early treatment is essential to prevent further damage. Scaling and root planing is a nonsurgical procedure that can be used to treat early-stage gum disease. This procedure involves cleaning the teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar buildup and smooth out any rough spots on the root surfaces. In addition to scaling and root planing, maintaining good oral hygiene practices at home and scheduling regular follow-up cleanings is crucial for preventing further damage to the gums and supporting structures.

Conclusion:

Gum disease and tooth loss can have significant impacts on a person's oral health and overall quality of life. Early detection and treatment are critical in preventing further damage and promoting good oral and overall health. By maintaining good oral hygiene practices and getting routine dental checkups and cleanings, individuals can prevent gum disease and promote healthy teeth and gums. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so take care of your oral health to prevent gum disease and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

What Some of Our Patients are Saying

Mariaelena Carrillo
Google
Everyone is very friendly and understanding! I got my wisdom teeth removed from this location and I wasn’t feeling too good after and they helped watch over me and next thing you know I’m feeling way better after a few minutes of their help!:) I come back in for my checkup appointment and they were super helpful with any questions I had and the healing process went smoothly!
Rosebud
Google
This is a very conscientious Practice. I Love my Periodontist Mr. SHELDON LU, DMD, MS he is caring, Extremely thorough , Answers all my questions with pleasure. Office staff Nancy, Maria and the rest of the staff there are same as Mr. SHELDON LU!! I’m glad I found him , and his wonderful staff. Makes a difference to me when people care. I would recommend this office anyone five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️from me , thank you for everything.
Victoria Shebala
Google
Dr Lu is an excellent periodontist. He doesn’t believe in giving a patient too many medications when they are not necessary. He really cares about his patients. He makes sure to keep the patient’s teeth and gums clean to prevent any serious gum disease. I am one of his patients and highly recommend him. The members of his office staff and assistants are very professional.
Queenie Zhao
Google
The clinic recommended by a friend specializing in the treatment of periodontal disease provided me with satisfactory service from the appointment to the post-operative period. Dr. Lu is very professional,he’s so considerate and gently answered my questions, he also taught me how to take care of my teeth every day. The front desk and the dental assistant are very warm and polite too.
Peterzj Luo
Google
Small office, but very cozy and friendly. This is my first visit. I am very much impressed by Dr. Lu's professionalism and expert knowledge. He did a thorough examination and explained treatment options in easy-to-understand language. I feel very comfortable and well treated. I definitely would come back and recommend to others.
Farhat Farooqui
Google
I was nervous before my tooth extraction and grafting procedure, but I knew I was in good hands with Dr Sheldon Lu and his staff. Dr Lu’s expertise and gentleness, and his staff’s efficiency and genuine concern for the patients made the surgical experience as pleasant as such a procedure can be. I would recommend Iconic Periodontics 100% to anyone. Thank you, Dr Lu and staff!
Stilian Halembakov
Google
Very friendly and nice team. Dr Sheldon Li is soft-spoken and gentle, thorough in his dental expertise without pushing for a decision on proposed action plan. Highly recommended !
Julisa T
Google
I love this dentist office. The front office is always kind, professional and very efficient. The dentists are always gentle quick and do an amazing job. I am a big chicken when it comes to any kind of invasive procedures, even minor ones. But I always feel at ease when I come here.10 ⭐️’s
Jennifer Joy Miller
Google
From the first point of contact on the phone I knew IPDI was a great place. After meeting Dr. Sheldon Lu, it was clear we’d found a gem. Dr Sheldon Lu and his team are professional, genuinely kind, caring and confident. You feel like not only have you met a great dentist, but made a new friend. Dr. Sheldon Lu is an honest dentist who instills trust in his patients by being upfront and genuine. I appreciate each staff member as well. Kind, clear and positive people work here.
Phuongut Huynh
Google
I had a wonderful experience at this place . Service was fast and the staff were very friendly. They made sure all concern I had about my teeth were answer . They took time to answer my questions and explain everything well to me . I came for a regular check up and cleaning done . The place was very nice. I usually don’t liked coming to a dentist office but for sure I will return back for my next checkup and cleaning Thanks to Dr Sheldon luu and his wonderful staff for such taking good care of me !

Contact Us

Book your complimentary appointment experience. You can trust.

Name(Required)