Untreated gum disease can lead to gum tissue loss, tooth loss and bone loss in your jaw. This begins when bacteria in plaque causes inflammation and tenderness in the gums. When gums swell and bleed, this condition is called gingivitis.

If gingivitis continues untreated, it can turn into periodontal disease (the most common cause for tooth loss in adults), which goes below the gum line and infects tissue beneath the teeth. The teeth can become loose and may eventually fall out. People can get a bone graft to build up their jawbone after it has been damaged by disease.

During a dental bone graft procedure, a dentist or an oral surgeon will make an incision, fold back part of the gum, clean out infected gum tissue, and then graft new bone material to the natural bone. Over time, your bone will create new bone cells around the grafted material. Bone grafts may increase the chances of keeping your teeth.

If you think you may need a bone graft or you have gum disease, please contact Dr. Molayem. Dental problems do not go away on their own, but Dr. Molayem will help you save your gums, teeth and smile.