{"id":137,"date":"2026-02-04T19:43:40","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T19:43:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.langworthyfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/?p=137"},"modified":"2026-02-18T19:43:56","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T19:43:56","slug":"how-gum-disease-affects-facial-shape","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.langworthyfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/2026\/02\/04\/how-gum-disease-affects-facial-shape\/","title":{"rendered":"How Gum Disease Affects Facial Shape"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Most people think of gum disease<\/a> as a problem that only affects the gums and teeth. However, advanced gum disease can actually change the structure of your face over time. Because your teeth and jawbone help support your facial shape, damage to these structures can lead to noticeable changes in appearance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Understanding Gum Disease<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues supporting your teeth. It typically begins as gingivitis, causing red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, where the infection spreads deeper into the bone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, advanced gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. As the supporting bone deteriorates, the stability of your teeth becomes compromised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bone Loss and Facial Structure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your jawbone plays a major role in maintaining your facial contours. When gum disease destroys bone tissue around the teeth, the jaw can begin to shrink or resorb over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bone loss can lead to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n