What caused my teeth to become loose, and if the problem is in the bone, why is the dentist sending me to a gum specialist? Did menopause cause this? My dental health was fine until I lost my period over a year ago.
Loose teeth may be a symptom of periodontal disease, as bone support around your teeth diminishes. Menopause, with its decrease in estrogen production, is a secondary contributing factor to periodontitis. Your teeth cannot withstand the normal forces of chewing and clenching as the supporting structures around the dentition decrease. Many people’s teeth do appear to migrate into new positions as periodontal structures (bone and gum tissue) are being destroyed. In other words, decreased levels of estrogen make women more susceptible to bone loss around the teeth.
Estrogen replacement therapy may decrease the amount of bone loss. However, the primary cause of periodontitis is bacteria; therefore good oral hygiene practice is crucial to prevention of periodontal disease. A periodontist, a gum specialist, can also decrease the depth of the pockets around your teeth with a minor surgical procedure. Smaller pocket depth makes it easier for you to remove the plaque or bacteria around your teeth.
Periodontis gum disease is an advanced form of gingivitis, dissolving the connective tissue under teeth. Eighty percent of Americans suffer from periodontis gum disease every year. If left untreated, periodontis gum disease leads to tooth decay and tooth loss.
Identification
Periodontis gum disease is identified by observing the gum line. A lowered gum line or gum inflammation are common symptoms.
Significance
Periodontis gum disease is the advanced form of gum disease that leads to tooth decay. It is hard to reverse the symptoms.
Time Frame
Periodontis gum disease is commonly diagnosed in people over 30. Teenagers and children are rarely diagnosed.
Effects
Periodontis gum disease irritates the teeth, causing pockets to swell along the gum line. Tooth decay and tooth loss occur if it is not treated.
Prevention/Solution
Having regular dental cleanings and flossing daily prevents periodontis gum disease. Eating a balanced diet also increases the body’s ability to fight off bacteria that causes tooth decay.