What kind of treatment are you expecting for gum disease? Obviously, procedures to reduce the level of bacteria in the mouth – such as antimicrobial therapy or scaling and root planing – will likely be utilized. However, in the truly severe cases where a lot of damage has already been done to the mouth, tooth extractions might have to be performed for the sake of your oral health. In the following post, you’ll learn why gum disease might ultimately lead to the removal of a few teeth and how the treatment will ultimately impact your overall oral health.
Why Would You Need Tooth Extractions for Gum Disease?
As you are probably aware, gum disease is a result of gum inflammation caused by bacteria between your gums and teeth. While the symptoms of the inflammation are comparatively mild at the beginning, over time more and more damage will be done to the tissues around the tooth. Gum disease will create pockets around your teeth, where more bacteria can live and continue causing gum inflammation. As a result, the jawbone around the affected teeth resorbs. Eventually, it may reach the point where the teeth have lost so much bone around them that they will become loose and may have to be removed so they don’t pose a risk of infection.
Will Tooth Extractions Help Cure Gum Disease?
It should be noted that while tooth extractions are often required as a result of gum disease, they do not actually help cure the condition. The procedure is reserved for situations where the teeth are beyond saving and is considered a last resort. In order to treat the gum disease itself, deep cleaning procedures (i.e. scaling and root planing) and often periodontal regeneration surgery are needed in order to repair some of the damage that has been done.
How Will You Know if a Tooth Extraction is Needed?
The surest sign that your teeth will have to be removed in the near future is that they start to feel loose, indicating that the connective tissues holding them in place have started to weaken. Your periodontist can evaluate the state of your teeth and your overall gum health in order to determine whether an extraction is truly needed. Make sure you call a professional right away if you have any doubts about the health of your teeth or gums.
About the Author
Dr. Alexander R. Schrott completed his certificate in Periodontology in 2007. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, he is well-versed in performing a variety of treatments related to gum disease, and that includes dental extractions. He is also a specialist in replacing lost teeth with dental implants to fully restore comfort, function and esthetics. If you think you could be at risk of losing your teeth due to advanced gum disease, you can set up an appointment at Dr. Schrott’s Belmont practice by visiting his website or calling (617) 484-9240.