What Can Happen if Your Gums Are Not Strong Enough to Hold Your Teeth
Posted on 1/18/2021 by Dr. Hallas
When it comes to oral health, many people focus primarily on their teeth and pay little to no attention to their gums. This is a mistake! Gum disease is the number one reason adults across the world lose their teeth. Gum disease can also lead to serious overall health conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and kidney problems, so it is incredibly important to take care of your gums. Read on to learn what can happen to your teeth if you have gum disease and find out how to keep your gums healthy.
How Gum Disease Leads to Tooth Loss
If gum disease is not detected and treated early, it progresses beyond gingivitis and begins to affect more than just your gum tissue. With advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis, your gums start to pull away from your teeth, creating “pockets” that foster the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar. Gum disease can also start to attack your jawbone if left untreated. Both gum recession and jawbone deterioration cause your teeth to loosen and eventually fall out, because your gums and jaw are no longer strong enough to hold your teeth in your mouth.
How to Keep Your Gums Healthy
There are several risk factors that increase your chance of developing gum disease. Smoking, using other tobacco products, drinking a lot of alcohol, and using alcohol-based mouthwash can all contribute to gum disease. Another significant cause for gum disease is poor oral hygiene. You should always brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing too hard, as rough bristles and over-brushing can irritate your gums. However, even perfect brushing is not enough to prevent gum disease; you also need to floss once a day. Flossing is crucial for cleaning between your teeth and against the gum line, and it is one of the best ways to keep your gums strong and prevent gum disease. Contact our office if you have questions about gum health.
About Us • Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry Looking for a Prosthodontist in Green Bay, WI? Our doctor & staff are experienced in oral prosthetics. We look forward to meeting you! Bay Lakes Center for Complex Dentistry - Escanaba, 524 Ludington St, Suite 301 Escanaba, MI 49829 + (906) 212-4725 + escanaba.baylakescomplexdentistry.com + 2/8/2025 + Page Phrases: dental implants Escanaba MI +