Tooth loss : Warning signs
- Posted on 12/09/2023 18:38
- Film
- By abelozih@sante-education.tg
Extract from the article: The periodontium is a part of the dentition composed of supporting bones, tissues, fibers and gums. The health of this part of the jaw is just as important as the health of the teeth. If the periodontium is in poor condition, there's a good chance we
The
periodontium is a part of the dentition composed of supporting bones, tissues,
fibers and gums. The health of this part of the jaw is just as important as the
health of the teeth. If the periodontium is in poor condition, there's a good
chance we'll lose them.
There
are many risk factors and signs that can alert you to tooth loss. Understanding
these signs can help you be aware of the state of your mouth and prevent
problems that lead to tooth loss.
A
change in gum color
The
normal texture of our gums is said to be orange peel with a pink color if we
have fair skin, tending to brown if our skin is black. Gum disease leads to
destruction of the ligaments and bone around the tooth root. When gums turn red
and bleed, it's time to seek medical attention, as this is a sign of gum
inflammation called gingivitis. Gingivitis can sometimes be associated with
infection. A change in color accompanied by bleeding gums should never be
overlooked, as is still all too often the case today.
Swollen
gums between teeth
The
gums in certain areas of the jaw have become enlarged. This may be an abscess
in the periodontium, a pocket of bacteria between the gum and the root of the
tooth.This can be a sign of periodontitis, a disease that leads to tooth loss.
Increased
tooth sensitivity
Gums
turn red and are painful when brushing or eating.These symptoms are signs of
gingival inflammation. As the inflammation progresses, the gums become
increasingly sensitive, then painful, followed by dental hypersensitivity to
hot and cold, as well as to sweet foods. This hypersensitivity is due to the
loosening of part of the dental root.
Bleeding
gums
Frequent
bleeding can be a sign of gum disease, such as gingivitis or
periodontitis.Recurrent bleeding, however slight, from the gums should not be
overlooked.Indeed, recurrent gingival bleeding is almost always the
manifestation of gingivitis of bacterial origin. If this inflammation is not
eliminated, it will slowly but progressively lead to periodontitis. This can
lead to loss of tooth attachment.
Bad
breathIt's easy to feel that even with good dental hygiene, your breath just
isn't the same.Some people, if possible, tell us so.It's time to do something
about it. Bad breath is caused by bacteria that proliferate and stagnate in the
oral cavity, particularly in periodontal pockets, releasing foul-smelling
volatile compounds. Bad breath can be one of the signs of periodontitis. Good
oral hygiene, including tooth brushing, is essential.Use a toothbrush or
toothpick. Accompany this practice with at least one annual visit to the
dentist.
Moving
teeth
One
or more teeth may feel even slightly loose.When gum inflammation sets in, it
often leads to a loss of tooth-supporting tissue.The bone resorbs, leaving part
of the root exposed. Teeth then move slightly.Spontaneous tooth loss is a
direct consequence of periodontal disease.
Tooth
loosening
In
the mirror, teeth appear longer in the mouth. When gingivitis, then
periodontitis, sets in, the gums gradually recede, revealing part of the root
as well as the dental crown. Without intervention to reduce and treat the
loosening, tooth sensitivity develops, followed by loss of the affected teeth.
Shifting
teethUntil now, teeth have been very closely aligned, but the upper incisors
have moved slightly apart.Prolonged, untreated inflammation around the teeth
can destroy tissue and bone.Tongue "tapping" behind the upper
incisors with loss of support causes the front teeth to fan out.It's a sign
that you're at risk of losing your teeth.
Elom
AKAKPO
Source:
Dr Christophe Lequart, Dental Surgeon (France)