{"id":172,"date":"2019-05-10T14:41:32","date_gmt":"2019-05-10T14:41:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.boston-dentist.com\/blog\/?p=172"},"modified":"2019-07-01T14:43:15","modified_gmt":"2019-07-01T14:43:15","slug":"boston-dentist-13","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.boston-dentist.com\/blog\/boston-dentist-13\/","title":{"rendered":"Boston Dentist on What Happens when Gum Disease Is Untreated"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"woman<\/a>If you have noticed red, bleeding, and inflamed gums, you probably know something is not quite right — and, if you are like a lot of people, seeking treatment may not be high on your priority list, either. But you should know those are the top signs of gum disease<\/span><\/a>, and that treating gum disease is vital for a healthy and lasting smile. Keep reading to find out more about the lasting effects of gum disease and how your Boston dentist can help treat it!<\/span><\/p>\n

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Effects of Gum Disease<\/span><\/h2>\n

Gum disease can have a significant impact on a smile. It starts out with bleeding gums when you brush and floss and then turns into persistent bad breath, receding gums, and gums that may bleed even when you eat. In the long term, gum disease causes tooth loss and puts people at a higher risk of experiencing a number of serious health conditions, including heart trouble, lung conditions, and, for pregnant women, premature labor\/low birthweight. <\/span><\/p>\n

Different Stages of Gum Disease<\/span><\/h2>\n

You may not notice gum disease right at first, when it is in the stage known as gingivitis. During this beginning phase, you can still reverse the condition with improved oral hygiene habits and a couple extra visits to your dentist. You will notice red, tender gums that bleed right at first.<\/span><\/p>\n

After gum disease progresses, deep spaces or \u201cpockets\u201d between your gums and teeth will begin to form. These pockets are caused by bacteria and will continue damage healthy gum tissue, eventually leading to tooth loss. After a certain depth, gum disease can only be managed and never completely \u201ccured.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

How to Treat Gum Disease<\/span><\/h2>\n

Partnering with a dentist is extremely important in battling gum disease. Routine checkups and cleanings at least every six months can help to prevent the condition from ever forming; but, if it does develop, your dentist can provide prompt treatment to prevent the more serious side effects from occurring. <\/span><\/p>\n

Some of the ways to treat gum disease include:<\/span><\/p>\n