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Posted on 2/20/2020 by Young Jun DDS MD FACS |
 For many people who are missing most, if not all, of their teeth, they may be thinking that their dental problems are over. Especially if they have a good set of prosthetics to replace a missing smile, perhaps running a cloth over the gums every now and then may seem like a good exchange when compared to time spent flossing and brushing. However, just because you do not have teeth does not mean you no longer have to take care of your mouth. What Happens When You Lose Your TeethSome have willingly resigned themselves to spending the rest of their lives with false teeth. Even running a denture brush across to remove particles and keep the prosthetic clean may seem like all that is necessary to keep your oral health in the best shape possible. However, without teeth in your jaw, your cells no longer send the message to regenerate the bone in the socket. In time, this can lead to degeneration and could ultimately cause the resorption of your jawbone, which could alter your facial structure. What's worse is that you are still susceptible to the effects of gum disease, even without your real teeth. How Does Gum Disease Affect Your Mouth?Periodontal disease often attacks the bone inside your mouth and can usually be the cause for missing teeth. Even toothless, your jaw is still vulnerable to the effects of disease and you should still continue to schedule regular appointments to evaluate the bone mass. As your jaw weakens, it can affect how your dentures fit and might cause unnecessary discomfort to your mouth that can easily be prevented. Make sure you continue to practice good oral hygiene, regardless of how many teeth you still have. If you notice symptoms of gum disease and have some concerns, it is important to have it checked out as soon as possible. Give us a call here at the office and we will schedule you an appointment without delay. |
