What Kind of Damage Does Advanced Gum Disease (Periodontitis) Cause?
Posted on March 07, 2025
In its early stages, gum disease or gingivitis is incredibly common. In fact, most Canadians experience some level of gum disease, which is typically detected and treated by a dentist. However, as gum disease progresses into its more advanced state, periodontitis, it can be more detrimental to your overall health and cause more significant interference with your everyday life. Investing in gum care, from regular cleanings to more advanced periodontal treatments such as periodontal flap surgery, gum grafting, or even dental implants when necessary, can prevent further damage or side effects and transform your quality of life. To learn more about how to support healthier gums when you’re dealing with severe gum disease, book a consultation at The Perio Centre with Dr. Adam Ohayon, a leading periodontist in Oshawa. We use advanced digital technology, diagnostic equipment, and a team of skilled experts to provide a high level of care.
Read on to learn more about why you should prioritize periodontal care in the face of advanced gum disease.
Gum Recession
One of the most noticeable symptoms of advanced gum disease is gum recession. This condition occurs when the tissue that surrounds the teeth becomes worn or pulls back, continually exposing more of the tooth and its root. While gum recession can occur in the early stages of gum disease, as the condition worsens, gum recession typically follows. Receding gums can be particularly concerning because they lead to gaps between the teeth and gum line, making it easy for disease-causing bacteria to accumulate. Over time, the supporting tissue and bone structures of the teeth can be severely damaged, potentially leading to tooth loss. Your periodontist in Oshawa can address gum recession with periodontal treatments like gum grafting and periodontal flap surgery.
Tooth Loss
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. As gum disease progresses, it weakens the gums and the structures that support the tooth. With factors like gum recession and heightened risks of infection at play, the roots of the teeth become more exposed and more vulnerable. Without timely intervention by a trusted periodontist in Oshawa, like Dr. Adam Ohayon, the teeth may eventually become loose, fall out, or require extraction. If you’re already experiencing a loose tooth or fallen out tooth, dental implants at The Perio Centre in Oshawa can be a viable solution to restore oral function.
Jaw Bone Deficiency
The bacteria that cause gum disease can reach the bones that support the teeth, leading to bone loss. Also, when one or more teeth are lost as a result of gum disease, the lack of stimulation of the jaw bone can cause bone loss. This bone loss can be progressive, resulting in significant changes to the shape and integrity of the jaw, which may complicate future dental procedures, access to nutrition, and confidence. Restoration techniques such as bone grafts and dental implants in Oshawa require a healthy bone structure, making early and expert treatment critical. A periodontist specializing in periodontal flap surgery and other restorative techniques can offer effective solutions to mitigate bone loss early and promote bone regeneration.
Increased Health Risks
The implications of periodontitis or advanced gum disease go beyond the mouth. Research has linked periodontal disease to several systemic health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and complications during pregnancy. The bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream and travel to various parts of the body, exacerbating or potentially triggering systemic conditions. Managing gum disease through comprehensive care by a periodontist at The Perio Centre will not only help preserve oral health but may also contribute to your overall well-being.
Protect Your Smile and Your Health at The Perio Centre
At The Perio Centre, your overall well-being is our priority. Our team offers a range of periodontal treatments, from scaling and root planing to slow or stop the progression of gum disease, as well as periodontal surgeries such as gum grafting and periodontal flap surgery to restore gums that have been affected by the disease. For personalized care and effective treatments that protect your smile and improve your quality of life, book a consultation at The Perio Centre with Dr. Adam Ohayon and our skilled team.