What Happens if Gum Disease in Pleasant Grove is Left Untreated?

Gum disease is a disease that affects around half of the US population, which is why February has been made National Gum Disease Awareness Month. In an effort to raise awareness about this common problem, your dentist wants you to know what can happen if your gum disease in Pleasant Grove is left untreated. Keep reading to learn about gum disease, its symptoms, and what you can do to prevent it.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of your gums and supportive tissue. It’s typically caused by lack of oral healthcare that leads to plaque and tartar buildup. This causes inflammation and infection of your gums. While the earliest stage of gum disease is reversible, if left untreated, it can do permanent damage to your gums, bone, teeth, and even your overall health.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?

The sooner gum disease is detected, the better for your oral health, which is why you should know some of the common signs and symptoms:

• Swollen or puffy gums
• Tender or red gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Teeth that appear longer
• Persistent bad breath
• Change in the way your teeth fit together
• Loose teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist in Pleasant Grove right away to get started on treatment. The longer you wait for treatment, the more likely it is that gum disease will progress into more serious health issues.

What Happens if Gum Disease is Left Untreated?

Untreated gum disease can affect not just your gums, but it can damage your jawbone and lead to tooth loss. Additionally, recent studies have shown a strong connection between gum disease and heart disease. One study shows that gum disease can increase your risk of cardiovascular issues by 20%. It has also been linked to increased risk of cancer, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s.

How Can I Prevent Gum Disease?

The best defense against gum disease is a great offense! That’s why it’s important to brush and floss your teeth everyday to remove disease-causing plaque and bacteria. When brushing, angle your brush at 45-degrees on your gumline to remove bacteria that breed between your teeth and gums. You can also add antibacterial mouthwash to your routine for an extra layer of freshness and protection.

Additionally, smoking and tobacco use increases your risk of gum disease dramatically, so you should try quitting this bad habit. Lastly, regular dental visits are the best way to prevent and detect gum disease before it gets more severe. Contact your dentist to schedule your routine checkups and cleanings for healthy gums.

Who knew that gum disease could have such an impact on the rest of your body? Be on the lookout for common symptoms and use these prevention tips to keep your gums healthy year-round!

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, we have a team of dentists with expertise in the detection and treatment of gum disease. For any questions, they can be contacted through their website or by phone at one of their many locations across the DFW area.