Bone Loss from Periodontal Disease:
Bacteria lives in the mouth. If not removed daily with brushing and flossing it can cause Periodontal Disease. One devastating aspect of Periodontal Disease is bone loss. Unfortunately, Periodontal Disease does not hurt and the bone loss occurs underneath the gum tissue. People are not aware they have infected gum tissue and are losing bone around their teeth. The teeth become loose and can fall out. Once the bone is gone it is almost impossible to regain the bone through advanced bone grafting procedures. With Scaling and Root Planing the source of the infection is removed and the bone loss is halted.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is a devastating disease. When left untouched results in gum tissue, bone, and tooth loss. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. This infection causes inflammation and irritation of the gum tissues and bone that surround and support the teeth.
The bacterial infection starts off the plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a blanket of bacteria that is constantly releasing toxins and bacterial waste. This bacterial infection causes the gum tissue to peel off of the tooth causing deep pockets around the teeth. Now the bacterial infection can reach deeper into the gum tissue. If treated by Dr. Nugent and his hygienists early, the effects of the gum infection can be completely reversible. However, if the bacterial infection is allowed to progress periodontal disease will destroy the gums and the underlying jawbone. The loss of tooth support structures (gum tissue and bone) will cause the teeth to become mobile and fall out. Furthermore, the bacteria from the gum infection can travel to other areas of the body via the bloodstream causing systemic inflation and infection.
What is Horizontal Bone Loss?
Horizontal bone loss is a common but serious consequence of periodontal (gum) disease. As bacteria attack the gums and bone that support your teeth, the bone deteriorates evenly across the jaw—leading to loosening teeth, shifting smiles, and potential tooth loss.
At our Pasadena, TX dental office, Dr. Michael Nugent uses advanced diagnostics like digital X-rays and 3D CBCT imaging to detect bone loss early. When caught in time, we can offer a range of treatments to halt the disease’s progression and help preserve your natural teeth.
Untreated horizontal bone loss doesn’t just affect your oral health—it can change the shape of your face and make future dental restorations like implants more difficult. That’s why early intervention and maintenance are key.
If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, gum recession, or loose teeth, it’s time to get checked. Dr. Nugent and his team are proud to serve Pasadena, Deer Park, and surrounding communities with honest, comprehensive periodontal care.