Worried by the phrase “disease that makes your teeth fall out”? The most common culprit is advanced gum disease, or periodontitis. This article explains what that disease is, how dentists diagnose it, the treatment options available, and when to see a specialist. If you’re in Berkeley, CA and want clear next steps, read on for practical guidance and when to seek expert care.

What is the disease that makes your teeth fall out?

The phrase disease that makes your teeth fall out in Berkeley, CA usually refers to periodontitis. Periodontitis starts as gingivitis, a reversible gum inflammation caused by plaque. If untreated, the infection moves below the gum line and destroys the soft tissue and bone that hold teeth in place.

As the infection worsens, pockets form between teeth and gums, bone is lost, and teeth can become loose or fall out. Common risk factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, certain medications, genetic predisposition, and older age. Addressing gingivitis early can prevent it from progressing to the more serious disease that makes your teeth fall out.

Key signs and symptoms to watch for

Catch symptoms early. Look for:

• Gums that bleed easily, are red, swollen, or tender.
• Chronic bad breath (halitosis) or a bad taste in your mouth.
• Gum recession or visible roots.
• Teeth that feel loose, shift, or no longer fit your bite or dentures correctly.
• Pus between teeth and gums, deep gum pockets, or persistent gum pain.

Seek care right away if you have heavy bleeding, sudden tooth mobility, pus, swelling that spreads, or fever. These can signal an active infection that needs prompt treatment to prevent tooth loss.

How gum disease is diagnosed and treated

Diagnosis starts with a clinical exam and periodontal probing to measure pocket depths. X-rays show bone loss. Many practices now offer oral DNA testing to identify specific periodontal pathogens, which helps tailor treatment.

Non-surgical care often resolves early to moderate cases and includes:

• Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar below the gumline.
• Local or systemic antibiotics when infection is present.
• Improved daily oral hygiene and more frequent maintenance visits.

For advanced disease or damaged tissues, specialist options include:

• LANAP® laser therapy to remove infected tissue and promote regeneration with less pain and faster healing.
• Guided tissue regeneration and bone grafting to rebuild lost bone and support teeth.
• Pinhole Surgical Technique® for treating gum recession without grafts.
• Dental implants or bridgework to replace teeth that can’t be saved.

Long-term prevention requires a periodontal maintenance schedule, quitting tobacco, controlling blood sugar for diabetics, and daily brushing and flossing. Regular professional care is essential to stop the disease that makes your teeth fall out from returning.

When to see a periodontist and trusted care in Berkeley, CA

See a periodontist if you have persistent deep pockets, visible bone loss on X-rays, failing teeth, or if you need implants or regenerative treatment. Periodontists provide advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, and coordinated implant planning.

For patients concerned about a disease that makes your teeth fall out in Berkeley, CA, Dr. Keith Chertok, DDS is a board-certified periodontist who offers LANAP®, the Pinhole Surgical Technique®, oral DNA testing, 3D digital planning, and sedation options for complex cases. His practice on Ashby Avenue blends conservative care with advanced technology to preserve natural teeth when possible and restore oral health when teeth are lost.

If you notice any warning signs, schedule an exam. Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can stop progression, protect your bone, and keep your smile healthy for years to come.