Tooth loss : Warning signs

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Extract from the article: The periodontium is a part of the dentition made up of supporting bones, tissues, fibres and gums.

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The periodontium is a part of the dentition made up of supporting bones, tissues, fibres 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 is a risk of losing them. 

A change in gum colour

The normal texture of our gums is orange peel with a pink colour if we have fair skin, turning brown if our skin is black. Gum disease leads to destruction of the ligaments and bone around the root of the tooth. When the gums turn red and bleed, it's time to seek medical attention, as this is a sign of gum inflammation known as gingivitis. This can sometimes be associated with an infection. A change in colour accompanied by bleeding gums should never be overlooked, as is still all too often the case today.

Swelling of the gums between the teeth

The gums in certain areas of the jaw have become enlarged. This may be an abscess in the periodontium. The formation of 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

Your gums turn red and are painful when you brush your teeth or eat. These symptoms are signs of gum 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 caused by the loosening of part of the dental root.

Bleeding gums

Frequent bleeding can be one of the signs of gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. Recurrent bleeding, however slight, from the gums should not be ignored. In fact, recurrent gum bleeding is almost always a sign of bacterial gingivitis. If this inflammation is not eliminated, it will slowly but progressively lead to periodontitis. This can lead to loss of tooth attachment.

Bad breath

Bad breath is caused by bacteria that proliferate and stagnate in the oral cavity, particularly in periodontal pockets, giving off 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.

Loose teeth

You can feel that one or more of your teeth are wobbly, even slightly. When inflammation of the gums sets in, this often leads to a loss of supporting tissue in the teeth. The bone resorbs and part of the root is exposed. The teeth then move slightly. Spontaneous tooth loss is a direct consequence of periodontal disease.

Loosening of the teeth

In the mirror, teeth appear longer in the mouth. When gingivitis and then periodontitis set in, the gums gradually recede, revealing part of the root as well as the dental crown. If no action is taken to reduce and treat the loosening, tooth sensitivity develops, followed by the loss of the affected teeth.

Moving teeth

Until now, the 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. The tongue ‘clicking’ behind the upper incisors with the loss of support causes the front teeth to fan out. This is a sign that there is a risk of losing teeth.

Source: Dr Christophe Lequart, Dental Surgeon (France)