If not treated, the disease becomes more and more destructive. In the elderly, periodontal disease is a primary cause for toothloss. As we age, the pulp gradually becomes smaller with fewer blood vessels and less nerve tissue supplying the teeth. As a result, your teeth have less fluid content and become brittle. Your brittle teeth may be easily broken or chipped.
Teeth wear because of the grinding action of chewing.
Tooth enamel becomes thinner. In severe cases, the enamel covering is completely worn away. Dentin can be dissolved by acidic oral fluids. Teeth with only a fragile enamel shell may result. These teeth are easily chipped or broken.