Advanced gum disease is linked to heart attacks and strokes, so stopping it before it progresses to this point is critical for your oral and overall health.
Gum disease is an uncomfortable reality for 42% of adults over the age of 30.1 Inflammation and bleeding are the first signs of gingivitis, which can quickly progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause bone loss, loose teeth or even tooth loss.
If Left Untreated, Can Gum Disease Require a Tooth Extraction?
If you have gingivitis or periodontitis, a tooth extraction is not the only solution. Depending on the severity of your gum disease, a tooth extraction may be needed.
When Does a Tooth Extraction Become Necessary?
There are a few reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary with gum disease. The most common reasons to extract a tooth are the advanced stages of periodontal disease and a lack of supporting jawbone around the tooth.
When There’s a History of Poor Oral Hygiene
Forgetting to brush and floss twice daily or not scheduling routine cleanings can lead to gingivitis. This is the beginning stage of gum disease, which manifests as inflammation of the gums. If untreated, it can advance to periodontitis which involves an infection in the jawbone or gums surrounding your teeth.
When You Have An Advanced Stage Of Periodontal Disease
Tooth extractions become increasingly necessary when you have developed an advanced stage of periodontal disease. At this stage, plaque, tartar, and bacteria build up in the pockets of your gums where the disease has taken over, leading to loose teeth.
If your teeth no longer function properly (i.e., they don’t allow you to bite and chew food properly or without significant pain), your periodontist may recommend an extraction.
When You Have Bone Loss
Bone loss in your jaw is a sign that your gum disease has progressed to an advanced stage of periodontitis. Tooth extraction may be the best option to prevent further health issues like a heart attack or stroke brought on by the severity of your infection.
When You Have Loose Teeth
If your teeth have loosened past the point of functioning correctly, tooth extraction may be necessary. The jawbone where your tooth was begins to deteriorate after extraction. This causes the teeth surrounding the missing tooth to have less support. Leaving a gap was is not good for your oral health.
While losing your natural teeth is unfortunate, it’s better for your periodontist to extract them before a more severe infection sets in. An experienced periodontist will give you several tooth replacement options, such as a dental implant.
What Are The Options For Tooth Replacement?
If you have to get a tooth extraction, you can discuss with your periodontist which tooth replacement options best suit your needs:
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Implant-supported dentures
- Conventional dentures
The best course of action for you will depend on the severity of your gum disease, your functional needs, your budget, and whether or not you want to undergo oral surgery.
Come To Dental Implants & Periodontal Health For Tooth Extractions In Rochester
If your gum disease has progressed to the point that a tooth extraction is needed, Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester can help. We also offer dental implants as a tooth replacement option to give you back your smile. Contact us today at 585-685-2005 to make an appointment!
Sources:
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6604564/