What Are the Consequences of Neglected Gum Disease?

One of the most widespread oral conditions in adults today is gum disease, or periodontal disease as it is called by dentists. It starts developing due to the accumulation of plaque and bacteria at the gumline. When not treated in time, the infection will eventually develop further and become a more severe problem that can have serious consequences for patients’ oral health. Thankfully, dentistry provides many different approaches to coping with and preventing periodontal disease.

Most people don’t think about this until it’s too late because the first symptoms of this disease might be subtle. Yet periodontal disease can be very harmful not just for your oral health but your overall health in general. Let’s find out more.

Understanding the Different Gingivitis Phases

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is often regarded as the first phase of periodontal disease and is very simple to cure. The most common cause of gingivitis is the excess buildup of plaque on the gums. Some common signs and symptoms include tender gums, redness of gums, pain when brushing or flossing the teeth, and the occurrence of bleeding gums. There being little or no permanent damage caused yet, the problem is easy to solve.

Mild to Moderate Periodontitis

If this phase is not given proper attention, the bacteria will spread beneath the gum line. They can harm the tissue around the teeth. Accumulation of bacteria and food particles in pockets of gum recession will cause bad breath and increase sensitivity of teeth.

Advanced Periodontitis

As the disease worsens, the bacteria start attacking the bone structure of the jaw and other connective tissues of the teeth. The teeth become loose, shift from their positions, and sometimes even get dislodged.

Link Between Periodontal Disease and Other Diseases

It is worth noting that gum disease may be a result of another disease that a person suffers from. Some of these diseases include diabetes, poor immune system, osteoporosis, respiratory and heart conditions. However, it is important to understand that in some cases, periodontitis worsens these diseases.

Effects of Untreated Periodontal Disease 

Even though swelling and bleeding are usually symptoms of gum disease, there is a lot more happening in your body because of these infections. For instance, inflammation that occurs in your mouth creates problems which affect your life negatively.

Gum Recession and Bone Damage

Periodontal infection leads to gum recession, which is a condition when gums pull away from teeth. As a result, tooth roots start being exposed and they are prone to decay. What is more, the disease affects the bone structure in your mouth where your teeth are attached.

Bad Breath

Other consequences of periodontitis are associated with your oral health as well. For example, bacteria that cause the infection emit toxins and create a bad odor in your mouth. Even regular brushing might not help in this case.

Teeth Loss or Instability

Inadequate density of the underlying bone causes shifting of teeth positioning as well as makes some of the teeth loose. Periodontitis, which is the commonest form of periodontal disease, is responsible for most cases of tooth loss among adults.

Effect on General Health Condition

A great deal of studies investigate the connection between periodontal disease and the general well-being of a person. Inflammatory response caused by periodontitis may cause serious consequences such as heart diseases, diabetes complications, lung conditions, stroke, etc. Proper treatment of gums will contribute to overall health.

Causes/Risk Factors

There are several specific health issues or lifestyle habits associated with increased chances for getting periodontal disease:

• Poor oral hygiene (inadequate brushing/flossing)
• Smoking/chewing tobacco
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g. diabetes)
• Changes in hormones in pregnancy/menopause
• Xerostomia (dry mouth) from medications
• Tooth grinding/clenching
• Poor nutrition and high sugar consumption
• Family history of gum disease
• No regular dental visits and cleaning

How to Avoid Getting Periodontal Disease

Use the Right Technique to Brush Twice a Day

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste for brushing for a minimum of two minutes each time. This will remove plaque before it hardens to become tartar.

Daily Flossing

Flossing daily enables you to clean out food debris and bacteria from places that a toothbrush cannot get to. It prevents the formation of plaque between the teeth.

Antibacterial Mouthwash

The use of an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash will kill off some germs and promote gum health when used alongside brushing and flossing.

Healthy Diet

With enough nutrients, your gums and teeth will remain healthy because of a nutritious diet. Limit sugary and acid foods to control bacteria.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Visiting the dentist for routine examinations and cleaning helps prevent the development of periodontal disease. The dentist will be able to detect early symptoms of periodontal disease and treat them.

Prevent Periodontal Disease before It Gets Worse

Periodontal disease develops gradually, and that is why most patients only detect it after it causes severe damage. Getting treatment at an early stage can help prevent other problems such as bone damage, gum recession, and tooth loss. Practicing good oral hygiene practices will help prevent periodontal disease from developing and keep your teeth healthy.

Bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity are some of the earliest signs of periodontal disease. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then visiting the dentist immediately will help prevent further problems.