Why Treat Gum Disease?

Posted by: Frank Alexander DDS in periodontal diseasegum diseasediabetes on  

Since gum disease is a bacterial infection of the bone and tissue surrounding the teeth, leaving the disease untreated can lead to:

  • Bone loss around the teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Eventual loss of teeth

Here are some other reasons to treat your gum condition.  Periodontal (gum) disease has been linked to the following:

  • Heart disease and stroke
  • Diabetes
  • COPD
  • Preterm, low birth weight babies in mothers with gum disease

All these health problems are linked to periodontal disease.  By treating gum disease, you may see an improvement in your overall health as well, especially if you have a history of diabetes or heart disease.