Gum disease is often attributed to lack of adequate oral care; however there are other reasons someone may suffer from gum disease, or periodontal disease, such as genetics, environmental and hormonal components. No matter what the cause, gum disease always requires treatment.
Gum disease starts with gingivitis. Gingivitis is a reversible disease that involves the soft gum tissues and if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis. This stage is where the disease has broken down the supporting structures for the teeth as well as the bone that surrounds the teeth. Although periodontitis is not reversible to any major extent, it can be halted and health can be regained with proper treatment.
But there are dangers beyond the health of your mouth and jaw if periodontal disease is left untreated. Not only can gum disease eventually cause the loss of bone and attachment leading to the eventual loss of teeth, but there are many systemic issues that can also be created.
These statistics show the costly affects of periodontal disease:
Heart attack - The likelihood of coronary heart disease doubles in patients with periodontal disease as well as 2.6 times more likely that this leads to death.
Stroke - Men who have suffered from periodontal disease are at a 57% higher risk of ischemic (oxygen deprived) stroke.
Diabetes - The International Federation of Diabetes states that proper control of gingivitis and periodontitis is one of the more effective methods to maintain a healthy blood sugar.
Pancreatic cancer - Men with a history of periodontal disease are 63% more likely to suffer from pancreatic cancer.
Periodontal concerns with pregnancy - Prophylactic cleanings possibly are more important in pregnant women than the rest of the population as women are two times more likely to having a premature or low birth weight baby due to periodontal disease.
If you are showing signs of periodontal disease, make an appointment with Dr. Joseph Richardson at Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry as soon as possible. Once the teeth have been cleaned sufficiently, Dr. Richardson can work to prevent, mitigate, or correct this disease.
Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is a full service periodontics and implant dentistry center in Eustis, FL. Richardson Periodontics & Implant Dentistry offers a full array of periodontics services to help you maintain healthy gums and a beautiful smile. Contact our Eustis office at 352-589-1973 for more information about dental implants or schedule your appointment online.