Why is treating gum disease important? Untreated gum disease leads to tooth loss, expensive dental procedures, and serious systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
Did you know nearly half of Americans over age 30 suffer from some form of gum disease? It is a staggering statistic that highlights a silent epidemic. While many people brush off a little pink in the sink while flossing, the reality is that ignoring these symptoms can lead to significant consequences. The Fort Collins Dentist wants you to understand that the price of neglecting your gums goes far beyond a simple toothache. It impacts your wallet and your overall physical well-being.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It typically starts as gingivitis, which is a mild form characterized by gum inflammation. At this stage, the damage is often reversible with better hygiene and professional cleaning. However, if left unchecked, it progresses to periodontitis. This advanced stage involves the destruction of the bone and gums, eventually leading to tooth loss.
The Hidden Health Risks
Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body, meaning oral infections rarely stay contained. Research links periodontal disease to a variety of serious systemic health issues. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to heart disease by clogging arteries. There is also a strong two-way relationship with diabetes, where gum disease makes blood sugar harder to control, and high blood sugar worsens gum infections. Studies have even found associations between chronic gum inflammation and conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, and osteoporosis.
Financial Costs of Neglect
Beyond the physical toll, untreated gum disease hits your bank account hard. Preventive care, such as routine cleanings and exams, is relatively inexpensive and often covered by insurance. In contrast, treating advanced gum disease requires deep-cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing. If the disease progresses to the point of tooth loss, the financial burden increases significantly. Restorative solutions like dental implants, bridges, or dentures come with a high price tag. Furthermore, managing the secondary health complications mentioned earlier adds another layer of medical expenses that could have been avoided.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
You need to recognize the symptoms early to stop the progression of infection. Common red flags include gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss. You might notice persistent bad breath that mouthwash cannot fix or gums that look swollen and red. As the infection deepens, gums may begin to recede, making your teeth look longer than usual. In severe cases, permanent teeth may feel loose or shift out of position.
How The Fort Collins Dentist Can Help
Dr. Lesko and her compassionate team provide comprehensive care to halt the progression of periodontal disease. The practice offers routine cleanings for early-stage gingivitis and advanced therapies like root planing for more severe infections. They also utilize modern technology such as OralDNA® testing. This diagnostic tool identifies the specific bacteria causing the infection, allowing for highly personalized and effective treatment plans that target the root of the problem.
Take Action Today
Protecting your smile is an investment in your future health and financial security. Do not wait until your teeth are loose or your health is compromised to seek help. Schedule your gum disease treatment with The Fort Collins Dentist today and protect your health in Fort Collins!
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526
