You are likely losing bone in your teeth due to periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Understanding Bone Loss and Periodontitis
- Gum Inflammation: Ongoing gum irritation and swelling, known as inflammation, is often the starting point.
- Pocket Formation: This inflammation can lead to periodontitis, where deep pockets form between your gums and teeth.
- Bacterial Buildup: These pockets fill with plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
- Infection Deepens: Over time, these pockets deepen, leading to more severe infections.
- Bone and Tissue Loss: If untreated, these infections cause a loss of tissue and bone supporting your teeth. According to the reference, unchecked periodontitis and deep infections directly result in loss of tissue and bone.
Essentially, the persistent inflammation and infection associated with periodontitis are eating away at the bone structure that holds your teeth in place.