Having regular dental check-ups helps to identify the presence of gum disease in its early stages, and then appropriate treatment can prevent the spread of infection and tooth loss. Missing teeth affect how teeth bite together, nutritional choices, and accentuate oral trauma, leading to bone and facial volume loss.

Ultimately, gum disease impacts an individual’s quality of life because oral and overall health suffers. Increased oral trauma causes discomfort and visible missing teeth, with changing facial contours affecting how individuals feel about themselves and their self-confidence.

Gum disease is gingivitis – swelling or inflammation of the gum tissues. Gums appear red and inflamed with bleeding. Bleeding is more likely to occur when brushing or eating. Where symptoms are mild, individuals may not know that they have the onset of gum disease.
A major cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene, when sticky plaque builds up in the mouth, attracting bacteria. Usually, good oral hygiene practices such as daily teeth brushing and flossing after meals and before sleep work to prevent plaque build-up.
Once plaque gathers on the teeth and gums, gingivitis may easily set in and, if left untreated, may infect oral structures, leading to conditions such as periodontal disease and bone loss. Teeth fall out because the bone and periodontal ligament attaching teeth to the jaw bone degenerate. A loose tooth is usually the start of tooth loss.