Your gums begin to recede, and the jawbone deteriorates, leading to loosened teeth that are at risk for falling out.
Missing teeth can be replaced, but just because they are not real teeth, that does not mean they are immune to problems. In fact, new gum disease can have an effect on them just as with your natural teeth.
Solutions for Missing Teeth
There are a few different ways that missing teeth can be replaced:
• | Fixed bridge, which is secured to surrounding healthy teeth and replaces one to three missing teeth. |
• | Partial denture, which replaces several missing teeth in one area. The denture is supported by the gums and held in place with metal wires. |
• | Full denture, which replaces an entire arch of missing teeth, and is supported by your gums. |
• | Dental implants, which can replace any number of missing teeth and are held in place by titanium rods that are surgically placed in your jaw bone. |
Changes in Fit
Gum disease attacks more than just the gums. It also attacks the structures underneath. Gradually, your jawbone begins to weaken, and any healthy teeth adjacent to your false teeth can become loose.
The weakening of the jaw, as well as the loosening of surrounding teeth, can alter the way that your false teeth fit. And if you have a fixed bridge, an anchor tooth can become loose and fall out, putting the bridge at risk of damage and in need of repair.
Lost Dental Implants
One of the major benefits of dental implants is that they help to stop the bone loss associated with tooth loss. However, if you have gum disease that is going untreated, the bone is still at risk. Bacteria can slowly destroy it, causing it to become weak. As a result, your formerly strong implants can become loose and even fail altogether.
False teeth do not make you immune to gum disease. You still need to practice proper oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. If you do notice signs and symptoms of gum disease between visits, make sure to contact our office right away.