How Long Can You Keep Your Teeth with Periodontal Disease

So, you've been diagnosed with periodontal disease, and you're probably wondering how long you can hang on to your teeth. There isn't a short answer to this one. Your teeth and your periodontal disease are a unique situation. But we do have some information that can help.

In this article, we're going to dive into the world of periodontal disease, how it can affect your teeth, and what you can do to keep them in your smile for as long as possible. Let's dig in and empower you with the knowledge to preserve your fabulous grin!

Alright, let's break it down. Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an inflammatory condition caused by a bacterial infection in your gums. It starts with plaque buildup, that pesky sticky film of bacteria that irritates your gums.

As the disease progresses, your gums pull away from your teeth, forming pockets where even more bacteria hang out. Over time, these bacteria and their byproducts can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss if you don't take action.

Periodontal disease is a major culprit behind tooth loss in adults. As the infection worsens, it weakens the gums and the bone supporting your teeth, making them loose and, well, fall out. But here's the thing—it doesn't happen overnight, and there are factors that influence the speed of tooth loss.

Things like your overall health, how well you take care of your oral hygiene, your genetic makeup, and how quickly you seek treatment all play a role in determining how long you can keep your teeth.

Don't fret! There are options to tackle periodontal disease head-on:

• Get those professional cleanings: Regular visits to your dentist or periodontist for professional cleanings (aka scaling and root planing) can remove plaque and tartar buildup, reduce inflammation, and help prevent further damage.
• Medication: You might need antibiotics, antimicrobial mouth rinses, or other prescribed medications to target and control the bacteria causing the infection.
• Gum Surgery: In advanced cases, surgical interventions like flap surgery, bone grafts, or tissue regeneration procedures may be necessary to repair damaged tissues and restore your oral health.
• Stay on top of maintenance: Once you've undergone treatment, follow your personalized maintenance plan. Keep up with regular check-ups, cleanings, and take your oral hygiene routine seriously. It's a team effort to keep your teeth in tip-top shape!

You're in this for the long haul, my friend! By taking action and sticking to your treatment plan, you can preserve your teeth like a champ:

• Keep good oral hygiene: Brush 'em at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. And hey, don't forget to floss daily to kick plaque and bacteria to the curb, especially those hard-to-reach places.
• Say no to tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco do no favors for your gums. Quitting these habits can do wonders for your oral health and help keep your teeth where they belong.
• Choose good foods: Nourish your body with a balanced diet packed with fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. These goodies boost your immune system and keep your gums healthy. Steer clear of sugary foods and drinks that give bacteria a party in your mouth.
• Maintain good overall health: If you have other health conditions like diabetes, work closely with your healthcare providers to manage them. Keeping your overall health in check helps protect your oral health too.
• Make it to your check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are a must. Your dentist or periodontist will keep tabs on your gum health, give you professional cleanings, and adjust your treatment plan as needed. They've got your back!

With early diagnosis, proper treatment, and a little TLC, you can hang on to your beautiful smile despite periodontal disease. Remember to prioritize your oral hygiene, stick to your treatment plan, and keep up with those dental visits. By taking these steps, you'll be rocking a grin that shines bright for years to come!

Dr. Leach is an award-winning dentist in Michigan. He will create a personalized treatment plan that will allow you to keep your teeth for as long as possible. Request an appointment to learn more.