Gums affected by periodontal disease become red and inflamed, often times bleeding during brushing or flossing. If treated in a timely manner, these conditions can be reversed, preventing periodontal disease from developing. Periodontitis is much more difficult to treat. 

Periodontitis affects your gums, bone and teeth in a manner that cannot be reversed. To prevent tooth loss, you may require more extensive, specialized treatment from your general dentist or even a periodontist. If left untreated, periodontitis results in tooth loss - teeth either fall out on their own or must be extracted. If you don't catch periodontitis in its early stages, you may require extensive surgery to save your teeth and may put yourself at risk for other serious health problems. 

According to Caesy Dental Education, "Ailments associated with periodontal disease include respiratory disease, pneumonia, strokes, ulcers, difficult-to-control diabetes, low birth weight babies, and infective endocarditis, a dangerous infection of the heart valves. Researchers recently discovered that this chronic infection in your mouth creates an open doorway for plaque bacteria to enter the blood stream. These bacteria - Streptococcus sangguis - may cause blood clots that can block your arteries and even trigger a heart attack." 

For more information about periodontal disease or our dental services, contact our office at 979-846-1813.