The Primary Cause of Lost Teeth
Did you know that gum disease is sometimes undetected right
up until the point where you lose your teeth? And gum (or
periodontal) disease is the number one reason for tooth
loss, not decay.
If you experience bleeding gums from brushing or flossing or
notice you have loose or shifting teeth, come into our
office immediately. It is possible to control gum infection
with various nonsurgical methods, if treated during the more
moderate stages.
Gum Disease Can Contribute to
Heart Disease
and Even Stroke
The American Dental Association has estimated that 80% of
all Americans have some stage of periodontal (gum) disease.
Most dentists consider this to be at an epidemic level.
Recent medical research demonstrates a link between gum
disease and heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Gum disease
is a more serious matter than just losing your teeth – it
can contribute to potentially fatal conditions.
The American Academy of Periodontology reports, “studies
found periodontal infection may contribute to the
development of heart disease, increase the risk of
premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to
people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes
and respiratory diseases.” The bacteria infecting the gums
travels through the bloodstream to all the vital organs,
affecting the state of health.
Now the Good News
You will be happy to know that, when treated in the earlier
stages, periodontal disease can be reversed using
nonsurgical procedures and better daily hygiene. If the
infection advances to a severe level, the treatment will be
surgery. Both procedures are generally covered by most
dental insurance plans.
What’s so Bad about Losing a
Tooth?
The main reasons for tooth loss are gum disease and decay,
not accident or injury. It is important to understand that
losing even one tooth will allow other teeth to start to
shift. This will affect how you chew and lessen the amount
of nutrients you absorb from your food. With missing teeth,
you may start to eat softer foods that have a high calorie
content, resulting in weight gain. Your appearance will
eventually change, as you take on a hollow look to your
face, and speaking may not be as clear as with a full set of
teeth.
With today’s technologies, implants are the best solution to
replace any and all missing teeth. They are very durable and
look so natural, even a dentist would have difficulty
telling that they are not yours.
We can help arrest your gum
disease and bring your smile back to health. Give us a call
today at (540) 338-0110.
Gum Health


(540) 338-0110 • 609-T East Main Street • Purcellville, VA 20132
