Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is not confined to the gums alone. Its effects can extend beyond oral health in many ways. Perhaps the most baffling and self-image-damaging way is how it can change your face shape if left untreated. But how could something like a bacterial infection cause your facial structure to change? Keep reading to find out.
How Gum Disease Progresses Through the Mouth
Gum disease typically begins with inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. Without prompt treatment, it can progress to periodontitis. This involves the deeper structures supporting the teeth. As gum disease advances, it poses a threat not only to the teeth but also to the underlying jawbone.
Gum Disease and Tooth Loss
If your periodontal disease becomes severe, it can lead to tooth loss. The infection causes your gums to become soft and fleshy, eventually causing the ligaments around your teeth to loosen.
This affects the stability of the teeth, and without proper treatment, they may need to be extracted. This tooth loss causes your lips and cheeks to sink in, no longer supported by the teeth behind them.
Gum Disease and Your Jawbone
Your jawbone is one of the strongest retainers of your face shape. It defines your jawline, your chin, and how the skin between your neck and jaw behaves. As gum disease spreads from the gums into the jaw, it begins eating away at the bone. Over time this can affect its density as the bone resorbs.
This process wears away at the foundation that supports your facial features and weakens them. This will change the overall shape of your face, shortening it and shrinking it. Meanwhile, more wrinkles will begin to appear as your facial structure collapses because the muscles lose elasticity or deteriorate.
If you’ve begun to notice symptoms of gingivitis, don’t allow it to get worse. Regular dental checkups and early intervention can help prevent the progression of gum disease and its harmful effects on your face shape. That’s good news! This means that all you have to do to keep your face full of youthful vigor is to take care of your teeth! So, be diligent in your care to preserve your smile and your face.
About the Practice
Dr. Matthew Ricke and Dr. Bill Sowter are your talented dental professionals at Lake Boone Dentistry of Raleigh. They pride themselves on their ultramodern methods and dental technology that they use to give their patients efficient, affordable, and pain-free treatment. If you’re experiencing discomfort in your gums, they’re here to help. Call (919) 781-8610 to schedule a gum disease treatment consultation or visit the website to learn about other services they provide.