Free Dental Directory of Diseases, Aliments and Solutions

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the teeth, gums, and the bone that surround the teeth.  This infection, combined with your body's reaction to it, is what causes bone loss.

Shown in the 1st illustration, the teeth roots extend into the bone of the jaw. This represents a healthy mouth, since the bone comes up high around the necks of the teeth.

The 2nd illustration shows advanced periodontal disease. The bone level is much lower and uneven, as compared to the healthy mouth in the 1st illustration. 

Once bone has been lost, it is gone forever.  When too much bone is lost, little support is provided for the teeth, resulting in their getting becomng loose and having to be removed.

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