If you think that gum disease starts and stops with a little “pink in the sink,” the next few paragraphs could be eye-opening for you. The fact is that periodontal issues can go much deeper than aesthetics. When left untreated for a while, it can even damage the tissues that support your teeth and change your face! Continue reading to learn how this happens, and how a dentist can help you take control before the damage becomes permanent.
How Gum Disease Starts
Gum disease usually begins with plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. If it isn’t removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which is just as bad, but much harder to remove.
This irritates your gums and can lead to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. During this phase, you may notice redness, swelling, or bleeding when you brush or floss. Importantly, the damage at this point is still reversible with good care.
From Gingivitis to Loose Teeth
If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease. This infection spreads below your gumline and begins to damage the ligaments and jawbone that hold your teeth in place.
As they break down, pockets form around your teeth, leaving them even more vulnerable. Over time, teeth can loosen, shift, or even fall out. This tooth loss is where changes in your facial shape really begin.
How Tooth Loss Changes Your Face
Your teeth and jawbone support your lips and cheeks from the inside. When gum disease causes tooth and bone loss, that support starts to decline. The result can be:
- A sunken or “collapsed” look around your mouth
- Deepening wrinkles around your lips
- A shorter distance between your nose and chin
- A more aged appearance overall
These changes can make you look older than you are and can affect your confidence just as much as your oral health.
How Your Dentist Can Help
It’s not all bad news! With proper treatment and support, gum disease can often be controlled, slowed, or stopped. Two common treatments are:
- Scaling and Root Planing: This is a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from above and below your gumline. The root surfaces are smoothed to help the gums reattach and make it harder for bacteria to stick.
- Antibiotic Therapy: In some cases, your dentist may place antibiotics directly into the gum pockets or prescribe medication to help fight the infection.
The sooner gum disease is treated, the better your chances of keeping your natural teeth and maintaining your facial structure. So, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact your dentist and set your smile on a path to recovery.
About the Practice
At Cove Choice Dental, we’re dedicated to protecting more than just your teeth—we want your gums and appearance to make you smile, too. Our team focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating periodontal disease early so you can maintain strong teeth, healthy gums, and a confident smile. Call (254) 987-6777 to schedule a consultation with our expert team or visit our website to explore other services.