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Tooth loss can seriously impact your quality of life, and while good oral hygiene has considerably improved rates of tooth loss in America, many adults today still struggle with missing teeth. Various factors can lead to the need for a tooth extraction in Northport, including a sudden blow to the face, tooth decay, or orthodontic treatments.
However, the number 1 cause of adult tooth loss is actually periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease. By understanding why this happens and how this dangerous disease progresses, you can take active measures to prevent it and protect your full smile.
What Is Periodontitis?
Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease that occurs when plaque and tartar are not removed from the teeth and gums.
Plaque is a sticky film made of bacteria that grows in the areas where your toothbrush doesn’t reach: oftentimes, the gumline. Without prompt removal, it turns into tartar, a solid substance that can only be cleaned by a professional hygienist.
When these substances develop in the gumline, they start to irritate your soft tissues, causing inflamed and bleeding gums. Over time, it worsens, damaging the tissues and bone that anchor your teeth in place.
As the bone deteriorates, your teeth loosen—and eventually, they may fall out or require extraction. In fact, periodontitis accounts for over 70% of adult tooth loss in the U.S. So, how does this condition progress to the point of tooth loss?
1. It Destroys the Bone Supporting Your Teeth
When bacteria penetrate deep beneath the gums, they cause a destructive immune response that degrades alveolar bone—the very structure that holds your teeth in place. When enough bone is removed, the tooth becomes mobile and unstable.
2. It Creates Deep Gum Pockets That Trap Infection
As the gums separate from the teeth, they create "pockets" in which bacteria thrive. These pockets are difficult to clean without professional assistance, which can allow the infection to spread.
3. It Often Goes Unnoticed Until It’s Too Late
Periodontitis can progress silently for years, causing minimal pain until the damage is severe. Many adults are unaware they are losing bone until their teeth begin to shift, feel loose, or hurt when chewing.
4. It Can Compromise Multiple Teeth at Once
Unlike trauma or cavities, periodontitis affects multiple teeth. It can rapidly affect several teeth at once, particularly in the back of the mouth, necessitating multiple extractions.
What Are the Signs of Periodontitis?
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to schedule an emergency periodontal exam:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession (teeth look longer)
- Pain while chewing
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pus between teeth and gums
The earlier we catch gum disease, the more teeth we can save. Schedule a dental consultation as soon as possible.
Don’t Let Gum Disease Cost You a Tooth Extraction in Northport
If you’re noticing gum symptoms or already dealing with loose teeth, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. Schedule your periodontal evaluation today at Northport Periodontics and Implant Dentistry to keep your natural teeth for life.
Remember: A proactive approach to gum care often ensures the best outcome. Get a check-up with a board-certified periodontist and learn how to manage periodontitis before it leads to extraction.