HomeAnswersPeriodontistalveolar bone loss

Is periodontal bone loss in a 45-year-old troublesome?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I was told that my gums are fine with most of them at level 3 and a few in level 4. One doctor said that I have some bone loss, but it is no big deal. Another qualified dentist said that bone loss is 20 %. Now, I am scared.

Am I in trouble with 20 % bone loss at the age of 45? I have a history of grinding my teeth and was previously fitted with a night guard for that purpose. I am currently on Synthroid for my thyroid problem.

Kindly suggest.

Answered by Dr. Naveen Thomas

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Naveen Thomas is an expert in Dentistry. He is experienced and well-versed in all treatment modalities of Dentistry.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The amount of bone loss, which is 20 % is not alarming at 45 years of age. It is routinely seen in patients at this age. There is no need to worry, as it does not mean that the tooth will fall off soon.

Try to maintain the current level by using a warm salt water gargle twice a day, or as much as possible, or even a mouthwash solution will help. Go for a routine checkup once every six months and get your teeth cleaned to maintain good oral hygiene.

The X-ray would have been more helpful for me to give a better diagnosis. Kindly watch out for loose teeth and show them to your dentist.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answered by
Medically reviewed by Dr. K. Shobana
Published At December 24, 2016
Reviewed At October 17, 2025

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Naveen Thomas is an expert in Dentistry. He is experienced and well-versed in all treatment modalities of Dentistry.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. K. Shobana is a Dental Surgeon specializing in oral health and dental care. She is skilled in preventive dentistry and provides oral hygiene education. She can do restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns. She can handle periodontal problems such as gum diseases and periodontitis. She can do root canal treatment.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Naveen Thomas

Dentistry

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Naveen Thomas is an expert in Dentistry. He is experienced and well-versed in all treatment modalities of Dentistry.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.