Gum Disease Poses Serious Health Risks

Almost 80 percent of adults have some level of periodontal, or gum, disease. This condition occurs when plaque and tartar are not properly removed. Early on, gums become swollen and bleed, a condition referred to as gingivitis. Daily brushing and flossing, combined with regular dental visits, can usually correct gingivitis.

If left untreated, the condition can escalate, and periodontitis can develop. At this stage, gums pull away from the teeth and infected pockets appear below the gum line. The bones, gums, and connective tissue that support the teeth are destroyed without proper treatment; tooth loss may also occur. Current research has linked gum disease to other serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and complications with diabetes.

Various therapies exist to treat gum disease and restore your oral health. They include scaling and root planing, antibiotic treatment, and in some cases, surgery. If you experience tender, swollen, or bleeding gums, see your dentist right away for a through examination.