Millions of Americans have gum disease. It may not seem like much, but what many people fail to realize is that if this disease is left untreated, it could ultimately kill you. That is not a hyperbole. Make sure you take care of your gum tissue and seek treatment as soon as you notice something is wrong.
How Can Gum Disease Be Fatal?
First, it is important to recognize that there are two stages of gum disease. These are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is less severe, and it occurs when your gum tissue has first become infected. Your gums will begin to turn red and start bleeding at this stage, so this is when you need to seek treatment from an expert dentist in Waco, TX. However, if you do nothing, then it will progress into periodontitis. This is when the infection spreads.
If the bacteria in your gums are allowed to flourish, then it can enter the bloodstream. From there it can get into organs and create infections in other parts of the body, including the heart. Bacteria inside heart valves can create a condition called bacterial endocarditis. Other conditions periodontitis has been linked to include lung disease and diabetes.
How Can This Be Stopped?
When it comes to your overall health, prevention is always the best course to take. Brushing and flossing every day is essential. You also need to schedule appointments with our dentist once every six months or so. These routine exams give our professionals a chance to inspect your gum tissue, and if there are any problems, then they can be dealt with before they are allowed to get worse.
Treat Gum Disease by Contacting Us
Dr. Donna Miller and Dr. Michelle Hinds are highly qualified dentists in Waco, TX who have helped numerous individuals get the care they need. They can do the same for you, so give us a call to schedule your next checkup.