Dental Gum Disease

Losing Teeth Because of Gum Disease

Gum disease, not decay, is the most frequent reason for missing teeth. Signs of infected gums are loose teeth and bleeding gums while flossing or brushing. Sometimes there are no significant signs until the problem is severely advanced. When treatment begins in the earlier stages, this problem can be halted by nonsurgical means. If you wait too long, surgery may be the only option.

Serious Consequences of Gum Disease

A link between gum disease and life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke has been identified. Medical research has confirmed that the bacteria infecting gums travel in the bloodstream, affecting vital organs and adding to or playing a role in the development of these serious conditions.

The American Dental Association has provided statistics that state 8 out of 10 people in the United States have this gum problem at some level. Dentists are now more concerned about periodontal (gum) disease, as it can mean more than losing your teeth.

The American Academy of Periodontology reports: "studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases."

SeaSide Dentistry 
Donna M. Gentry, DDS 
1165 Cedar Point Blvd, Suite P 
Cedar Point, NC 28584 
(252) 764-2784 
SeaSideDentistryNC.com