{"id":5,"date":"2026-07-28T17:52:57","date_gmt":"2026-07-28T17:52:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.brooklinedentalwellness.com\/blog\/periodontitis-and-your-profile-how-gum-disease-changes-your-face\/"},"modified":"2026-08-07T15:02:05","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T19:02:05","slug":"periodontitis-and-your-profile-how-gum-disease-changes-your-face","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.brooklinedentalwellness.com\/blog\/periodontitis-and-your-profile-how-gum-disease-changes-your-face\/","title":{"rendered":"Periodontitis and Your Profile: How Gum Disease Changes Your Face"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Have you noticed a change in how you look in the mirror? It could be your diet or exercise routine, but it could also mean it\u2019s time to see your dentist. Just as healthy habits can change your appearance, issues like advanced gum disease can also slowly chip away at your chin and cheeks. Over time, it can make you look older, tired, or sunken. But how does this happen, and how can you stop it? Continue reading to find out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

What Is Gum Disease, Exactly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an inflammatory response to plaque that\u2019s built up along your gumline. In its early stage, called gingivitis, your gums may look red, swollen, or bleed when you brush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. At this point, the infection begins to damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth, which is where its influence on your face begins to become noticeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Gum and Bone Loss Can Change Your Facial Appearance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Healthy gums and jawbone do more than hold teeth in place. They also support your lips, cheeks, and the lower third of your face. When gum disease destroys this support, teeth can loosen or even fall out. Without strong teeth and jawbone, your face can begin to \u201ccollapse\u201d inward, leading to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n