24
Apr
Untreated Gum Disease Could Pose a Serious Threat to Your Oral and Overall Health
It’s estimated by the American Dental Association that nearly 47 percent of Americans over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. This is a needlessly high statistic when you consider that gum disease can often be prevented by consistent oral hygiene habits and regular attendance to your routine dental exam at Dental Art Concepts PLLC.
Gum disease often starts out as moderate gingivitis. Most of the time, this level of infection can often be remedied with a thorough cleaning procedure. You can then prevent future issues with consistent improvements in your daily oral hygiene regimen.
If left untreated, gingivitis will slowly develop into the more dangerous form of gum disease known as periodontitis. This level of infection in the gum tissues can cause the gums to recede from the base of your teeth. This enables pockets of infection to form deep within the gum tissues. In time, it can even result in the loss of bone structure deep down where your teeth anchor in the sockets.
Chronic periodontitis can also lead to systemic inflammation complications that tax your immune system. New research has found that this can be related to other medical conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. While gum disease cannot cause these conditions, it does have a relationship with them that can limit your treatment options.
If you live in the Staten Island, New York, area and you have periodontal health concerns, you should call (718) 313-4343 to schedule an oral health exam with Dr. Matthew Scaffa.