Lost Teeth Due to Gum Disease? Here Is What You Can Do Next

Reviewed by Dr. Gary Morris, DDS

Reading time: four minutes.

If you’ve lost teeth due to gum disease, you may be wondering what comes next. Before replacing missing teeth, it’s essential to treat the underlying gum infection to ensure a healthy foundation. Skipping this step can lead to implant failure or other oral health issues.

At Morris Dental Solutions, we help patients restore their smiles by treating gum disease and offering long-term tooth replacement options. Here’s what you need to know to move forward with confidence.

Step One: Gum Disease Treatment

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that damages the gum tissue, tooth roots, and even the jaw bone. If left untreated, it leads to loose teeth, bone loss, and eventually, tooth loss.

How long does gum disease treatment take? The timeline depends on the stage of gum disease:

• Gingivitis (Early stage): Mild gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup. It can be reversed within a few weeks with professional treatments, proper care, and improved oral hygiene.
• Periodontitis (Moderate stage): Gum recession, bone loss, and pockets between the teeth and gums. Treatment may take several months, involving deep cleanings such as scaling and root planing, and possibly gum grafts.
• Advanced gum disease (Severe stage): Significant bone loss, loose or diseased teeth, and possible oral infection. Treatment may take six months to a year or longer, including bone grafting, tooth extractions, and extensive periodontal treatment.

Once the disease is under control, you can consider tooth replacement options. Learn more about periodontal disease: Is Periodontitis Reversible or Just Manageable? Expert Insights

Tooth Replacement Options After Gum Disease

Once your gums are healthy, you have several teeth replacement options available:

Dental Implants

• The gold standard for tooth replacement, dental implants mimic natural teeth by anchoring a titanium post into the jaw bone.
• Can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch with implant bridges.
• Requires healthy bone and gum tissue to ensure long-term success.
• Offers superior stability, durability, and function compared to other options.

Best for: Patients with adequate healthy bone or those willing to undergo bone grafting to rebuild support for implants.

Implant-Supported Dentures

• These combine the benefits of dental implants with the affordability of traditional dentures.
• Securely anchored with a few strategically placed implants, reducing the need for adhesive or adjustments.
• More comfortable and stable than removable dentures or partial dentures.

Best for: Patients who want a more secure and functional alternative to traditional dentures.

Traditional Dentures and Partial Dentures

• Removable prosthetics that rest on the gums.
• Partial dentures use clasps to attach to remaining healthy teeth.
• A cost-effective choice, but they require periodic adjustments due to jaw bone shrinkage over time.

Best for: Patients who are not candidates for implant surgery or prefer a non-invasive tooth replacement solution.

Temporary Bridge

• A temporary bridge is used to replace lost teeth while your gums recover from gum disease treatments.
• Helps maintain function and aesthetics while preparing for a more permanent solution.

Best for: Patients awaiting dental implant procedures or another long-term replacement after gum disease treatment.

If you are unsure which option is best, check out our blog: Your Guide to Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics

How to Prevent Future Tooth Loss

Protect your gums and replacement teeth with these essential steps:

✔ Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
✔ Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
✔ Use an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent bacterial infection.
✔ Schedule regular dental checkups to monitor gum health.
✔ Quitting smoking and/or vaping is one of the best things you can do for your oral health. Both harm your gums, increase the risk of tooth loss, and can lead to implant failure. The sooner you stop, the better your chances of keeping your smile healthy

If you have a history of gum disease, maintaining long-term oral health requires ongoing care. Dental checkups every three to four months help prevent gum disease recurrence.

Read on for more tips: Top Preventative Dentistry Tips: How to Keep Your Smile Bright

Schedule a Consultation at Morris Dental Solutions

Replacing teeth lost through gum disease is possible, but it requires careful planning. At Morris Dental Solutions, Dr. Gary Morris will evaluate your gum health and recommend the best replacement options for your situation. To book an appointment at our dental office in Buffalo Grove, IL, call (847) 215-1511 or visit us at 195 N. Arlington Heights Rd., Suite 160, Buffalo Grove, IL.