The Potential Lifelong Consequences of Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a significant concern for a majority of adults in Encinitas/San Diego. Not only can it lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as gum tissue inflammation and bleeding, but also cause patients to lose teeth, experience further oral health troubles, and have higher risks of certain systemic illnesses. Therefore, one of the most important reasons to seek expert periodontal treatment is to minimize or avoid the potential lifelong consequences of gum disease.

The Beginnings of Gum Disease

Patients experience gum disease to varying degrees, from minor to severe. Its earliest and most minor stage, known as gingivitis, develops when oral bacteria infect your gums. At first, the symptoms may be limited to redness and minor swelling in your gums, but this can quickly progress to bleeding, more significant inflammation, and gum tissue erosion. If it isn’t treated in a timely manner, then gum disease will grow increasingly more severe until it is.

The Consequences of Tooth Loss

Because of the damage that it causes to your gums and jawbone structure, severe gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. The rampant erosion of these structures leaves one or more teeth without adequate support, and for many patients, tooth loss or extraction becomes inevitable by the time they seek treatment. In addition to replacing the lost teeth, preserving the rest of your oral health will also depend on successfully managing the disease to keep it under control.

The Impact of Chronic Inflammation

Inflammation in your gums is one of the driving forces behind the destruction that gum disease causes. It’s also a significant risk factor in several different chronic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and much more. Studies have shown that the presence of periodontal inflammation can increase the risks of patients developing other health conditions down the road.

Learn to avoid the consequences of gum disease

Left untreated, the consequences of gum disease can be dire and can have a lifelong impact on patients’ oral and overall health. For more information, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.