Gum Disease – How it Affects Your Health

While most people know that gum disease can affect your oral health, most are unaware of how it can also affect your overall health and well-being. There are many serious risks associated with gum disease that you should be aware of. Left untreated, periodontal infections can jeopardize your quality of life.

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an aggressive bacterial infection that harms your teeth by destroying the bone and gum tissues around them. You can get gum disease if you don’t take good care of your mouth by brushing and flossing each day.

What are the Symptoms?

Signs of gum disease include tooth loss, bad breath, bleeding while brushing or flossing, redness, swollen gums, and receding gum tissues. Bad breath and tartar buildup are also common. If you notice any signs of periodontal disease, call our dentist in Marietta to reserve an exam.

Gum Disease Linked to Cardiovascular Health Concerns (and More)

Studies show that gum disease is linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes, infertility, pneumonia, and other underlying medical conditions. The more aggressive your gum disease is, the more likely you are to struggle with getting your overall health under control.

Fortunately, there’s good news. By treating chronic gum disease, you can lessen the strain on your immune system and reduce the number of bacteria spreading into your bloodstream. Most patients tend to see improved health within just a few months.

What are My Treatment Options?

If you have mild to moderate gum disease, a series of deep cleanings can help halt the cycle of bone loss and tissue deterioration. More aggressive periodontitis may need additional intervention.

To learn more about how gum disease affects your health and what you can do about it, contact our Marietta dentist Dr. Barnett  to reserve an exam.