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Atlanta Dentist Answers Questions About Gum Disease and Tooth Loss Atlanta, GA

Over 75% of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease and tooth loss. Indeed, this inflammatory disorder has reached epidemic proportions. Due to the subtle nature of the disease, many people have no idea they even have gum disease until it has reached an advanced stage. While you can effectively treat and even reverse the earliest form of gum disease, known as gingivitis, advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, requires invasive treatment and can lead to tooth loss. Dr. David Zelby, your Atlanta dentist and prosthodontist, discusses the stages of gum disease, how gum disease causes tooth loss, and options for people who have lost teeth to this disorder.

The Stages of Gum Disease

Gum disease begins innocuously enough, with the buildup of plaque along the gum line. Plaque both contains and attracts bacteria. As the bacteria digest microscopic bits of sugar and starch, they create an acidic by-product that irritates your gums. At this point, the symptoms of gum disease begin to present:

  1. Gingivitis: Your body reacts to the irritation and the bacterial presence by causing the gums to retract from the teeth. Gingivitis causes no pain but you will notice that your gums bleed or look bright red after normal brushing and flossing.
  2. Gum Disease: If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to gum disease. As the gum recede, they form pockets that encourage further bacterial buildup. Your body reacts to the continuing presence of bacterial infection by causing further inflammation and by destroying the infected tissues.

How Gum Disease Causes Tooth Loss

A hard connective tissue called cementum holds your tooth in place. As gum disease worsens, your body begins to destroy the connective tissue in an attempt to kill the infection. As the connective tissue dies, your teeth loosen in their sockets. At this point, you will need to have the loose teeth extracted by your dentist. However, if you catch gum disease early enough, your dentist has several options for treating gum disease and saving your teeth, including deep cleaning and laser therapy.

Replacement Options After Gum Disease Related Tooth Loss

If you lose a tooth to gum disease, you will need to replace it as soon as possible or risk serious oral health issues such as an increased risk for further gum disease, tooth decay, and TMJ disorders. A skilled prosthodontist can provide you will several tooth replacement options, including dental implants, a fixed bridge, or partial dentures. Of course, your best option is avoiding gum disease altogether via consistent at-home care and regular preventive checkups with your dentist.

Tooth Replacement in Atlanta

If you have irritated or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or loosened teeth, call Dr. David Zelby at (770) 955-0550. Dr. Zelby and the expert team at Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta can return your smile to optimal health, function, and beauty. Our Atlanta dentist office proudly serves patients in Marietta, Smyrna, East Cobb, Buckhead, Vinings, and Metro Atlanta.

Posted on behalf of Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta

200 Galleria Pkwy SE, Suite 1830
Atlanta, GA 30339

Phone: (770) 955-0550

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What Our Patients Says
Aesthetic and Implant Dentistry of Atlanta

4.9 / 5

Based on 136 reviews

Dr. Zelby was recommended to me by both my dentist and periodontist. I could not agree more. the kindness, caring, and professionalism that I experienced at Aesthetic & Implant Dentistry of Atlanta is above and beyond. I highly recommend Dr. Zelby, his assistants, and the staff. I couldn't be happier with my new teeth and wish I had done this years ago! five stars to you guys

Catherine W.

Everything about my experience was enjoyable. I felt like the practice used all of the most advanced and best technology out there which gave me a wonderful feeling of confidence. They were very professional and straight forward and I have never had a better dentistry experience. I'd highly recommend checking them out if you're looking for a new dentist. They're friendly and efficient and they really do know what they're doing there.

Meghan D.

Dr Zelby has been my dentist now for almost 17 years. Not only is he a really nice person, his dentistry is completely top notch. If you need any restorations, I don't think that there is another place to even consider. You'll be amazed with his work!

Brian S.

Dr. Levine was great, and Dr. Zelby stopped by and answered some questions I had about sheering forces on enamel. They were both very friendly, and the hygenist (whose name I forget, unfortunately) gave one of the most thorough cleanings I've ever had. The office was clean, the devices all seem shiny and well maintained, and overall it was a great experience

Benjamin S.

After going to another dentist, doctor Zelby was able to fix my front two teeth so that the front two teeth were back to the same length and color. I'm so thankful he was able to make them look normal again. Dr. Zelby and his staff are so pleasant to be around as well. I highly recommend this office if you have a major problem with your teeth that need to be fixed. He can get it done and he will make sure you are happy.

Carrie G.

I had been going to the same dentist for many years and switched to Aesthetic and Implant recently. My experience with Dr Levine was incredible. I cannot be happier with the decision I made. The cleaning and other services I received were well above and beyond any other I have ever had. Highly recommend this practice to everyone!

Matthew G.

Couldn't be happier! Absolutely worth the travel time. Dr Zelby is without doubt the best - caring, knowledgeable, reassuring and very professional. Couldn't ask for better dentistry. Staff also very competent and professional. Beautiful, clean environment

Diane W.

Megan is the best dental hygienist I’ve ever had. She does a phenomenal job keeping your teeth clean, is super nice, and makes you feel right at home. The whole staff is very friendly and I couldn’t recommend this place enough!

Vincent C.

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Cobb Galleria Office Complex, Building 200, Suite 1830

Contact

200 Galleria Pkwy SE, Suite 1830
Atlanta, GA 30339

Phone: (770) 955-0550
Email:

Opening Hours

Monday 9AM – 5PM
Tuesday 9AM – 5PM
Wednesday 9AM – 3PM
Thursday 9AM – 5PM
Friday 9AM – 4PM

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