About half of adult dental patients in the United States struggle with gum disease. Though common, this infection of the gum tissue can cause major damage to your teeth, gums, and jaw without prompt treatment from your dentist.
Your dentist can get rid of this disease with periodontal therapy. But even after eradicating the infection, you might notice some aesthetic concerns remaining in your smile.
Consult with your dentist to find treatments that will restore and enhance the appearance of your smile. Read on to learn about three cosmetic dental issues that gum disease might cause and how your dentist can amend them.
Fix Aesthetic Concerns Cause by Gum Disease
Reduce Puffiness in Gums
The early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, usually presents with inflammation in the gums. You might notice that your gums look red and swollen and can bleed easily. Not only do inflamed gums pose a threat to your overall well-being, but you might feel self-conscious about the way they make your smile appear.
When your dentist gets rid of gum disease, the puffy look in your gums should go away too. Your dentist treats the infection by thoroughly cleaning your teeth, especially deep in the gum pockets. They may give you an antibacterial rinse to bring balance to the natural bacteria in your mouth. This can further reduce your periodontal symptoms.
Close Gaps Between Teeth
The swelling of your gum tissue from gum disease can affect the position of your teeth. They may shift out of place and remain misaligned even after your dentist treats the infection. This can leave you with gaps in your smile or crooked teeth.
A dentist can close small gaps in your teeth with dental bonding. They apply composite resin in these gaps to make the smile appear fuller. The cosmetic benefits can last for three to ten years if you take proper care of your smile following this procedure.
The dentist can fix more severe bite problems from misaligned teeth with Invisalign. Ask your dentist which treatment will help you best accomplish your smile aesthetic goals in the wake of gum disease.
Replace Missing Teeth
As gum disease progresses, bacteria will eat away at your gums, tooth roots, and jawbone. Over time, the tooth may fall out due to this extensive structural damage. Gum disease is actually the leading cause of tooth loss.
Missing teeth can put you at risk of many oral health complications as well as disrupt the look of your smile. Your dentist can find the best tooth replacement solution for you to restore the look and feel of your smile.
The most comprehensive restorative benefits can be found with dental implants. The implant will restore lost teeth both above and below the gumline. You can find custom prosthetic teeth with treatment from your dental professional. Learn if you qualify for this permanent tooth replacement treatment by scheduling an evaluation with your dentist.