3 Dangers Associated With Gum Disease

If it's been a while since you've seen a dentist, your gums may be in danger. Take a look in your mouth. Are your gums red and swollen? Do they bleed when you brush your teeth? Do your teeth seem to be longer than they used to be? If you've answered yes to any of these questions, you could be suffering from periodontitis, a severe form of gum disease.

Periodontitis is one of the leading causes of premature tooth loss in adults. To avoid tooth loss and other health issues, you should schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible. Here are four dental and health issues you may face if your gum disease goes untreated.

Dental Infections

Gum disease is caused by plaque that builds up on your teeth and below the gum line. Over time, large pockets develop around the root and fill with bacteria. As the bacteria builds up inside the pockets, it begins to eat away at the roots of your teeth. Without proper treatment, you may begin experiencing infections inside your gums. Unfortunately, if left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of your body, which can lead to septicemia.

Deterioration of the Jaw Bone

While periodontitis is eating away at your teeth and gums, it's also destroying the bone that your teeth attach to. Over time, your jaw bone can become so thin that it can no longer hold your teeth securely. When that happens, you'll notice your teeth getting loose and your gums receding. Unfortunately, once periodontitis reaches the bone, even your healthy teeth will be adversely affected.

Health Problems

In addition to severe dental issues, periodontitis also causes medical problems. In fact, periodontitis is linked heart disease and strokes. If you have a pre-existing heart condition, periodontitis – or gum disease – may make the condition worse. Research has also shown that gum disease interferes with your body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. If you suffer from heart disease or diabetes, it's important that you receive treatment for periodontitis as soon as possible.

You want to avoid premature tooth loss. You also want to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you're experiencing symptoms associated with periodontitis, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. With proper care, your dentist can get the disease under control, which will help you avoid the health issues associated with periodontitis. Read more about oral surgery here.