What Happens When Periodontal Disease Remains Untreated?

Periodontal disease, which is often indicated by infection and inflammation in the gums, is a very common dental problem. This disorder can cause teeth to become loose or even lead to tooth loss if untreated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), periodontal disease affects 70.1% of individuals aged 65 or above and 47.2% of adults aged 30 or above.

Despite being very common, periodontal disease can be avoided with appropriate care and oral hygiene. Periodontal disease can be detected early, thanks to routine dental exams, which lowers your risk of suffering from this problem.

Now, there are various aspects of gum disease or periodontal problems. This blog will mostly focus on what happens if a gum problem remains untreated. But, before that, you should know a few other details about gum disease. 

What Are The Different Types Of Periodontal Disease?

Just like gum disease has various stages, it can also be categorized under numerous types. 

• Gingivitis – Gingivitis is usually caused due to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, which irritates the gums and leads to swelling and bleeding. It is considered the initial stage of periodontal disease. However, gingivitis can be treated by a dentist and reversed with the help of good dental hygiene.
• Aggressive Periodontitis – Patients who are otherwise healthy can suffer from a rapid loss of gum attachment and bone destruction, which is commonly referred to as aggressive periodontitis.
• Chronic Periodontitis – This is gum inflammation, which weakens the tissues and bone supporting the teeth and causes them to shift or become loose. Gum recession is a defining feature of this type of periodontal disease. People of almost all age groups are susceptible to this illness; however, adults are the ones who suffer the most.
• Periodontic Disease Caused By Systematic Diseases – This type of periodontal disease frequently develops early in life and is brought on by illnesses like respiratory infections, diabetes, and heart disease.

What Happens If Periodontal Disease Is Left Untreated?

Simple gingivitis is the first sign of periodontal disease. The gum tissue may swell and appear red, leading to poor breath. However, it can progress into mild to moderate periodontal disease, which is marked by infections and bleeding gums, if left untreated.

Tartar buildup and bacterial invasion into the gum tissue causing the periodontal disease to worsen, causing ligaments and underlying bone to deteriorate. It can ultimately be the reason for receding gums, bone damage, and tooth loss.

You need to know that periodontitis has implications that go beyond your dental health. As bacteria and tartar multiply, they can enter your blood circulation and spread throughout your body, increasing the risk of suffering from diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and other illnesses, including rheumatoid arthritis. 

Final Words

We hope you have now understood why treating periodontal disease at an early stage is very important. Book an appointment with My Dentist For Life if you are looking for the best periodontal treatment in Plantation, FL. Give us a call to schedule your visit.