Gum disease is one of the most common dental health problems today. Left unchecked, this disease can lead to serious dental and general health problems. Gum disease can be downright devastating to your dental health, resulting in pain, discomfort, and eventually tooth loss. But beyond that, it has been linked to a number of different conditions and chronic diseases, including heart disease, dementia, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and premature birth.
It is thought that the bacteria and inflammation, over time, cause problems throughout the body. During its initial stage, gum disease is usually reversible with regular professional cleanings and daily brushing and flossing. The prognosis is good when gum disease is caught early, and your gums can be returned to a normal, healthy state. When permitted to advance to the subsequent stages, though, more intervention is necessary, and the condition is usually not reversible.
