Will I Lose My Teeth With Periodontitis? A Dentist Explains
Worried about losing teeth to periodontitis? Learn the truth about advanced gum disease, its symptoms, and modern treatments. Discover how early intervention from our expert team can save your smile.
Dr. Hans Almanzar
Jul 7, 2025
The Critical Question: Can Periodontitis Lead to Tooth Loss?
"Will I eventually lose my teeth if I have periodontitis?" This is one of the most common and serious questions we hear from patients. It’s a valid fear, as advanced periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The good news is that losing teeth is not an inevitable outcome.
The key to saving your smile is understanding the disease and taking proactive steps. In this post, we’ll explain what periodontitis is, its causes and symptoms, and, most importantly, how modern treatments can halt its progression and prevent tooth loss.
What is Periodontitis?
A severe gum infection that destroys the bone supporting your teeth.
Starts as Gingivitis: Reversible gum inflammation from plaque.
Becomes Periodontitis: Untreated gingivitis evolves, threatening tooth survival.
Causes and Risks
Main Cause: Plaque hardening into tartar below the gum line.
Key Risks: Poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, genetics, and health conditions like diabetes.
Symptoms
Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums.
Gums pulling away from teeth (recession).
Persistent bad breath or pus.
Loose teeth, new gaps, or painful chewing.
Dangers if Untreated
The infection erodes the jawbone, leading to:
Tooth Loss: Teeth become loose and can fall out or require extraction.
Systemic Health Issues: Links to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Treatment
Deep Cleaning (Non-Surgical): Scaling and root planing to remove tartar.
Surgery (Advanced Cases): Procedures to reduce pocket depth or regenerate lost bone.
Your Future Smile: Taking Control of Periodontitis
So, back to the original question: Will you eventually lose your teeth with periodontitis? Not if you take action. While untreated periodontitis certainly leads to tooth loss, it is a preventable outcome. With early detection and a consistent treatment plan, it is entirely possible to stop the disease's progression, manage the condition, and keep your natural teeth for a lifetime.
Your oral health is in your hands, but you don't have to face it alone.
Don't Wait for Gum Disease to Make a Decision For You.
If you have concerns about your gum health or have noticed any of the symptoms mentioned above, the most important step is to consult a professional for an evaluation. Contact our expert team at Gardens Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule your comprehensive periodontal assessment.
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