Top Dangers of Gum Disease

Many people mistakenly think of gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) as a minor annoyance that causes embarrassing symptoms like bad breath. However, if treatment is not sought for gum disease in Arlington VA, a variety of dangerous symptoms can develop. These symptoms are not just limited to oral health, but can involve a variety of physical conditions that can be painful or even life-threatening. Here are a few of the top dangers of gum disease you should know about.

1. Tooth Loss

Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up in the spaces between the gums and teeth and is left to fester until the gum tissue becomes inflamed and infected. The longer gum disease goes without being treated by an experienced dentist, the more damage it causes to the gum tissue. Over time, the gums can degrade and separate from the teeth. When this happens, one or more teeth can fall out of the mouth as a result.

2. Diabetes

Many people with gum disease in Arlington VA, are surprised to find out that gum disease has been linked to diabetes. It seems that inflammation in the body is a major factor in both conditions. Untreated periodontal disease has also been linked to stroke and heart disease.

3. Premature Birth

Pregnant women are especially susceptible to gum disease due to changes in hormone levels. Since periodontal disease has been linked to premature births and low birth weight babies, pregnant women should take extra care of their oral health while they are expecting.

Treat Your Symptoms Today

The more gum disease progresses, the harder it is to treat. In most cases, periodontal disease can be prevented with a good oral hygiene routine. However, genetics, certain medications and other factors can cause some individuals to be more susceptible to gum infections. For these reasons, it is important to see the dentist regularly so that signs of periodontal disease can be detected and treated early. To schedule your appointment with Dr. Duke Kim, call Ballston Dental Arts today.