Dental Consequences of Periodontal Disease For those patients suffering from periodontal disease, it can be a painful endeavor. The disease is quite progressive and destructive to all tissues in the oral cavity. What starts as sore and irritated gums slowly descends into symptoms of painful chewing, loose teeth, discomfort along the jaw, and finally to extensive tooth loss and bone loss across both jawbones. The cause of periodontal disease is the lack of good oral health brought on by ineffective brushing and flossing. The bacteria living in the mouth are responsible for keeping the teeth clean by helping the digestive system dissolve food debris. However, when there is ineffective brushing and flossing these bacteria are not removed and will build to destructive levels. The balance is lost, the oral cavity soft and hard tissues suffering. The worst part about periodontal disease is the fact that once it progresses beyond gingivitis, which is the first stage, the disease is a lifelong complication. Once in the last stage of the disease, it cannot be cured. It can only be managed through periodontal maintenance procedures. Anyone who has questions regarding periodontal disease, whether for themselves or a loved one, is asked to come into our Implant & Periodontics Solutions office for a consultation. The ConsequencesThough the initial symptoms might not seem alarming, they can lead to situations where teeth can be lost, as can supportive bone structure. When the bacteria are left, it will eventually become plaque, which is a sticky substance, which then turns into tartar. This agitates the gums and becomes the first stage of the disease. One indicator of gum disease is the sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks. This happens when the gums recede from the base of the teeth, exposing the sensitive root structure of the teeth. As the disease grows worse, there can be visible discharge along the gum line and eventually result in a weakening gum structure. When this occurs, teeth can become loose with decay and disease. When widespread tooth loss begins, additional problems can arise. Without the necessary pressure brought by biting motion, the jawbone can begin to weaken as well. The remaining teeth will begin to shift into the vacated space brought on by the tooth loss. This causes changes in the biting motion and can put damaging pressure on the TMJ. It also means the teeth are making contact in different areas than they were designed to do, which can make them wear improperly and bring about even more complications. Treatments AvailableWhen patients are given the diagnosis of periodontal disease, it is a lifelong diagnosis. Patients will have to deal with the disease for the remainder of their life. Having multiple periodontal maintenance cleanings each year, will help alleviate the symptoms and slow the progress of the disease as much as possible. For those patients suffering from periodontal disease and in need of guidance or answers to questions regarding treatments, they can come into our Implant & Periodontics Solutions office to discuss them today. We can be reached at 623-556-5442 to discuss the options over the phone or to schedule your office visit. |
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