It’s sad to think that most people are likely unaware that gum disease, which affects nearly half of American adults over 30, can actually change the appearance of their face! You’re probably wondering how an affliction in the mouth that you maybe haven’t even noticed until recently could have the power to alter the shape of your face. In this article, you’ll learn how if left untreated, periodontal disease can progress to such a state.
Gum Disease Can Damage the Jawbone
Advanced gum disease, also called periodontitis, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. As the infection and inflammation progress, the bone surrounding affected teeth may gradually deteriorate.
Because your jawbone helps support your facial structure, significant bone loss can affect the contours of your face. The changes may be subtle at first, but extensive tooth and bone loss can become more noticeable over time.
Tooth Loss Can Change Facial Support
Periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. When a tooth is lost, the bone that once supported its root no longer receives the same stimulation and can gradually shrink.
Losing multiple teeth can have a greater effect on facial support. In some cases, reduced support around the mouth and lower face may contribute to a more sunken or aged appearance.
Your Smile May Change, Too
Gum disease can affect the appearance of your smile before significant tooth loss occurs. Receding gums may make teeth appear longer, while swollen or uneven gums can alter the gumline.
Advanced periodontal disease can also cause teeth to become loose or shift position. Gaps may develop, teeth can tilt or rotate, and your bite may change. These changes can affect both your oral function and the appearance of your smile.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Gum disease does not always cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. Bleeding while brushing or flossing, continuous bad breath, swollen gums, gum recession, and loose teeth can all be warning signs that deserve professional attention.
Treating gum disease early can help prevent or limit further damage to the gums and supporting structures. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include professional cleanings, improved home care, scaling and root planing, or more advanced periodontal treatment like laser therapy.
Your gums, teeth, jawbone, and facial structures are closely connected. While mild gum disease is unlikely to dramatically change the shape of your face, advanced periodontal disease accompanied by significant bone and tooth loss can affect facial support and appearance. See your dentist for a checkup every 6 months to allow them to keep a close eye on your gum health and detect problems before they advance!
About the Practice
Dr. Najjar and Dr. Le at Amaze Dental in DeSoto believe in offering advanced therapy for periodontal disease because gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. If you’re experiencing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums, our team can improve gum health comfortably with soft tissue laser treatment and fend off infection with antibiotic therapy. Visit our website for more information and scheduling or call (972) 230-1100.