Gum disease, also known as gingivitis and periodontal disease, occurs when you have chronic inflammation of your gums. The inflammation can range from mild to severe, as gum disease affects everyone differently. Mild forms of gum disease can be reversed; but if left untreated, the damage may lead to serious dental disease and other health problems.
Importance of Oral Health
Aside from causing inflammation, gum disease is often painful and causes bad breath. You can reverse gum disease by regular brushing and flossing, along with regular visits to your dentist or dental hygienist. Regular cleanings of your teeth allow built-up plaque to be removed that gets trapped between those hard-to-reach spaces. When gum disease is left untreated, your gums can recede and pull away from your teeth, which allow the pockets of your gums to become infected.
Progression of Periodontal Disease
As gum disease progresses, the bacteria in your mouth wear down the enamel on your teeth. Your odds are increased of developing more cavities and even losing your teeth. Teeth become loose as the pockets around them recede and the bone and connective tissue erode.
Coronary Risks and Hypertension
Heart problems, such as acute coronary syndrome and heart disease, have been associated with gum disease. The risk increases with the advancement of gum disease. If the pockets between your teeth and gums recede far enough to allow plaque to become trapped, the bacteria may also enter your bloodstream and go straight to your heart, according to MayoClinic.com. Gum disease can also cause endocarditis, or inflammation of the inner lining of your heart. The risk for hypertension, or high blood pressure, is increased with advanced gum disease.
Other Risks and Complications
Gum disease has been associated with low birth weight and premature birth. Diabetics may develop more severe gum infections and gum disease if blood sugar levels are not controlled properly. Diabetics with blood sugar that's out of control tend to lose more teeth related to gum disease than diabetics who have their blood sugar in control. Osteoporosis is believed to be associated with gum disease.
