Periodontal Disease: A Silent Threat to Bone and Tooth Loss

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a progressive condition that affects the tissues and structures supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to severe bone loss, eventually causing tooth loss. This disease starts with , inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and can advance to affect the bone that holds the teeth in place, ultimately causing significant damage. But there is hope—especially when approached from a biological dental perspective, which focuses on addressing the root cause of the disease.

• How Periodontal Disease Leads to Bone and Tooth Loss
• The Biological Dentist’s Approach: Controlling the Root Cause
• Risks of Pharmaceutical Medications
• The Importance of Natural Antibiotics: Ozone Therapy
• A Balanced Approach to Periodontal Health

How Periodontal Disease Leads to Bone and Tooth Loss

Periodontal disease begins when harmful bacteria build up around the gum line, forming plaque and tartar. If this bacteria is not controlled, the immune response in the body creates inflammation in the gums, causing them to pull away from the teeth. As the disease advances, this inflammation starts to break down the bone and connective tissue, forming pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria continue to thrive. Over time, as the bone deteriorates, the teeth lose their support becoming mobile and may eventually fall out or need extraction.

To prevent this, it's important to control the disease early by managing the bacteria that trigger the immune response and inflammation.

The Biological Dentist’s Approach: Controlling the Root Cause

Biological dentists approach periodontal disease with the goal of controlling the disease at its root cause - bacterial overgrowth. Instead of relying on conventional methods which only helps to remove the tartar buildup, holistic dentists focuse on restoring balance to the oral microbiome, the community of bacteria in your mouth. By targeting the bacteria without disrupting the natural environment of the mouth, biological dentists aim to halt the disease and support the body’s natural healing processes.

The Downsides of Western Pharmaceuticals

Many conventional treatments for periodontal disease rely on powerful pharmaceuticals, such as chlorhexidine, a commonly prescribed antimicrobial mouth rinse. While chlorhexidine is effective at killing bacteria, it often does so indiscriminately, killing beneficial bacteria along with the harmful ones. This broad-spectrum approach can disrupt the oral microbiome, potentially leading to other issues like dry mouth, altered taste, and even resistance to antibiotics over time. Moreover, chlorhexidine and other harsh chemical treatments may contain ingredients that are toxic or harmful when used long-term. Studies has also shown that Chlorohexidine is a carcinogenic agent. 

In contrast, biological dentists prefer natural treatments that respect the body’s natural balance. These methods are less likely to cause harmful side effects and aim to support, rather than suppress, the body’s ability to heal.

The Importance of Natural Antibiotics: Ozone Therapy

One of the most effective natural therapies for controlling periodontal bacteria is ozone therapy. Ozone is a powerful antimicrobial agent that kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi without damaging the healthy tissues or altering the natural balance of bacteria in the mouth. It works by disrupting the cell walls of harmful bacteria, effectively neutralizing them. Ozone therapy is non-invasive, and there are no toxic side effects, making it an ideal alternative to conventional antibiotics.

In addition to its antimicrobial properties, ozone therapy also enhances oxygen delivery to the tissues, promoting faster healing and reducing inflammation. By choosing ozone therapy over harsh chemicals like chlorhexidine, patients can manage their periodontal disease in a way that supports overall health and well-being.

A Balanced Approach to Periodontal Health

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can result in bone loss and tooth loss. However, by addressing the root cause—bacterial overgrowth—biological dentists can help patients achieve better outcomes with less invasive treatments. Natural antibiotics like ozone therapy offer an effective alternative to conventional pharmaceutical options, reducing harm to the oral microbiome and supporting the body’s natural healing capabilities. Controlling periodontal disease at its source is crucial to preserving not just your teeth but your overall health.

At Seattle Dental Care, our biological dentists provide the safest, least invasive, and most natural treatments for periodontal disease, encouraging your body’s natural healing process.