The Risks of Untreated Gum Disease

Although millions of people have gum disease, a very small percentage of them actually understand how serious this oral condition can be. Keep reading to find out what could happen to your oral and overall health if leave periodontal disease untreated:

Infection and Inflammation in the Gums
Gum disease develops when an infection occurs in the gums and in the tissues that support the teeth. In its initial stages, gum disease is called gingivitis. Although this is a mild form of the condition, it can lead to serious issues if not properly treated. Gingivitis causes bleeding gums that are often swollen and tender. If you do not visit your dentist in Denver for treatment, gingivitis will eventually turn into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease.

Loss of Bone, Tissue, and Teeth
If you do not get treatment for your gum disease, the infection might eventually eat away at the bone and tissues in your mouth, which could cause you to lose one or more of your teeth. Once you lose even one tooth, the other teeth in your mouth are more likely to shift out of place. Your cheeks might also start to sink in because there is not enough of a foundation to hold them in place.

Infection in Other Parts of the Body
When there is an infection like gum disease in your mouth, it can travel through your blood stream to other parts of your body. This could increase your risk for heart disease and stroke. If you are diabetic, it could also make it much more difficult to keep your blood sugar under control. Gum disease can also cause pregnant women to give birth to premature babies. If you have gum disease, it is very important to talk to your dentist about the right kind of treatment for your needs so you can prevent these and other serious health issues.