We’ve talked about periodontal disease a few times now, but what exactly is it? Basically, it’s an infection in your gums; it’s also known as periodontitis. If you don’t do anything about it, the infection can spread. As a result, not only can it destroy the soft tissue in your mouth, but it can also lead to your teeth falling out.
Some symptoms of periodontal disease include:
Swollen gums
Puffy gums
Bright red or purple gums
Gums that bleed easily
Gums that feel tender to the touch
Bad breath
Painful chewing
Pus between your teeth and gums
Loose teeth
Spaces developing between your teeth
Receding gum how we said that your oral health is a window to your overall health? Well, if you have periodontal disease, then it’s an indication that your overall health isn’t so good.
Research has shown that periodontitis is linked to things such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and even cancer. Scientists aren’t sure if one causes the other, but one thing’s for sure: they’re definitely linked. You should always err on the side of caution and assume that your periodontal disease may be what could potentially cause other health issues. So make sure you keep up with periodontal maintenance for as long as your dentist recommends.