by 
The Curious Bag
-
No one wants to lose their teeth. However, gum disease is common among adults in United States and left untreated, leads to bone loss and loose teeth. If you have bone loss due to gum disease, you may still be able to save your teeth.
Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs because bacteria on the teeth and gums hardens into plaque, which turns into tartar, which works its way deep into the gum, causing the gum to pull away from the teeth and pockets to form.
Bone Loss
Tartar begins to grow in the pockets, which are below the gum line. The bacteria in the tartar breaks down the bone holding the teeth in place.
See Your Dentist
If you have loose teeth, see your dentist right away. He or she will x-ray your mouth and determine the amount of bone loss and what treatment will be appropriate.
Surgery
If your gum disease and bone loss is severe enough, you may have to undergo a flap procedure, where the dentist cuts the gum open, removes the tartar, and grafts bone if necessary. The gum is then stitched back in place.
Tooth Removal
Your dentist may determine that your loose tooth needs to be removed to prevent the gum disease and bone loss from spreading further.
Source:
WebMD: Flap Procedure for Gum Disease
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC