Do your gums bleed when you brush? If so, these could be signs of gum disease, a common yet serious condition that affects more than just your gums. It can lead to loose teeth and, if left untreated, tooth loss. The good news? It’s preventable and treatable. Keep reading to explore how gum disease can loosen your teeth and what you can do about it!
How Does Gum Disease Cause Loose Teeth?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting your teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. This plaque gets under the gums, leading to gingivitis. It is an early stage of gum disease and can be reversed with proper care.
If the plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
In the advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis), the infection goes beyond the gums. It starts to attack the bone and connective tissue that hold your teeth in place. The deeper the infection spreads, the more your teeth lose their foundation. This is why, over time, untreated gum disease can make your teeth feel loose or even fall out.
Warning Signs That Gum Disease Is Loosening Your Teeth
Signs that gum disease may be loosening your teeth include:
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Consistent bad breath
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- Gaps forming between your teeth
- Teeth that feel loose or shifting
- Swelling and redness of the gums causing bleeding
Can Loose Teeth Be Saved?
Yes, loose teeth can be saved, especially if gum disease is caught early. The first step is scheduling a dental appointment so a periodontist can assess the severity of your gum disease. Depending on your condition, treatment options may include:
- Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): A non-surgical procedure where the dentist removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths out the tooth roots, helping gums reattach to the teeth.
- Antibiotic Treatment: If the infection is severe, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection.
- Surgery: In some cases, gum surgery may be necessary to remove deeper tartar and bacteria and restore lost bone tissue.
- Bone Grafts or Gum Grafts: These procedures can help regenerate lost bone or gum tissue to support the teeth.
Do not Wait Until It’s Too Late!
If you have been experiencing gum discomfort or noticed that your teeth feel loose, do not wait to see if it gets better. Gum disease would not go away without treatment. The sooner you address it, the more likely you are to save your teeth.
At SIMA Dental, Dr. Reza Rahgozar specializes in diagnosing and treating gum disease to help prevent serious issues like loose teeth or tooth loss before they occur. If you’re concerned about your gums or teeth, call (281) 457-6444 to book an appointment today. Let’s bring back your healthiest and brightest smile!