Gum disease can be a more devastating oral health issue than many people realize. While the initial symptoms are often mild, the condition can ultimately lead to far bigger problems – and surprisingly enough, this can potentially include facial collapse. Below is a closer look at how gum disease may affect the shape of your face if it isn’t properly dealt with.
What Happens When You Have Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums caused by an accumulation of plaque and tartar. Early on, this can result in gum tissue that tends to bleed easily and is redder than normal. Over time, though, untreated gum disease can cause the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth. Eventually, harmful bacteria will start damaging the ligaments holding the teeth in place. If nothing is done, this can result in the teeth being lost altogether.
How Can Gum Disease and Facial Collapse Be Related?
If your gum disease ultimately leads to tooth loss, facial collapse may not be too far behind. Without the stimulation from your teeth, your jawbone will start to shrink. This can give your face a more sunken and hollow look. On top of that, your cheeks may start to sag, your lips may become thinner, and your face as a whole may appear shorter.
What Can You Do to Avoid Facial Collapse Related to Gum Disease?
The best way to avoid facial collapse and other severe consequences of gum disease is to have the problem treated as soon as possible. If you schedule a consultation with your periodontist, they can determine how advanced your gum disease currently is and walk you through your options for addressing it so that you can get your oral health back on track.
In many cases, gum disease can be treated via a deep cleaning that consists of two main steps: scaling and root planing. Scaling involves removing harmful plaque and tartar from the area around and below the gum line. Meanwhile, root planing involves smoothing out the roots of the teeth. This is done to make it easier for the gums to reattach themselves.
The idea that gum disease can lead to facial collapse can be a disheartening one, but as long as you’re proactive about getting your smile the care it needs as promptly as possible, you can avoid the worst-case scenario. Keep an eye out for the symptoms of gum disease, and be sure to call your periodontist right away if there’s anything you’re concerned about.
About the Author
Dr. David Handsman has been in Worcester since 2005. He is a well-respected member of the periodontal community and has been recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. He’s proud to be able to help patients with gum disease protect their smiles via scaling and root planing. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Handsman at Handsman & Haddad Periodontics, visit his website or call (508) 753-5444.
