It might seem like an exaggeration to claim that any dental or periodontal treatment can significantly affect your overall quality of life – until you realize how important your oral health is. The more obvious influence is your smile’s appearance and how your level of confidence is affected by it. A not-so-obvious consequence is the way dental diseases, particularly periodontal disease, can affect every aspect of your oral health, and can increase your risks of systemic health issues.
The Dangers of Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection in your gums marked by unchecked inflammation and the destruction of your periodontal tissues. The condition is caused by, and exacerbated by, inflammation-causing oral bacteria, which work their way underneath your gums in the form of plaque and tartar.
In severe cases of periodontal disease, the inflammation and tissue degradation can lead to the loss of one or more teeth. Also, gum disease-causing bacteria can enter the blood stream through compromised oral tissues, increasing your risks of other chronic inflammatory health conditions (like diabetes and arthritis).
Seek Help from Your Periodontist
If you notice that your gums are bleeding, or that they appear red and angry-looking, then you may already have gingivitis – the first stage of periodontal disease. To protect your smile, you should seek treatment as soon as possible from your periodontist. As an expert in periodontal health and treatment, your periodontist can design a conservative treatment plan to address your specific concerns and prevent gum disease from affecting your entire life.
