What Untreated Gum Disease Can Do To Your Lungs
Posted on 12/1/2025 by Martin Periodontics |
 You take good care of yourself. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and visit your dentist for regular checkups. You may even go the extra mile and use mouthwash or have your teeth professionally cleaned. Yet, despite all your efforts, you still have gum disease. Don't worry – you are not alone. Gum disease is a common problem, affecting nearly half of all adults over the age of 30.
Gum disease is an infection that affects the gums and the tissues surrounding the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Gum disease can cause a range of problems, from mild inflammation to severe infection. In the early stages, gum disease may only cause mild symptoms, such as red and swollen gums. However, as the disease progresses, these symptoms can worsen to include bleeding gums, receding gums, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.
What many people don't realize is that gum disease can also have a serious impact on your overall health. In fact, research has shown that there is a link between gum disease and several serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
A recent study found that people with gum disease are twice as likely to have a heart attack or stroke as people without gum disease. This is because gum disease can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream, where it can travel to the heart and blood vessels.
Gum disease can also make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. This is because gum disease can cause inflammation throughout the body, which can interfere with the body's ability to use insulin.
The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable. If you have gum disease, your dentist can develop a treatment plan to help you control the disease and prevent it from causing further damage. Treatment options may include professional cleaning, antibiotics, and surgery.
Here are some things you can do to help prevent gum disease:
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Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. |
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Floss once a day. |
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See your dentist for regular checkups. |
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Quit smoking. |
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Eat a healthy diet. |
By following these tips, you can help keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease from affecting your overall health.
If you have any questions about gum disease, please talk to your dentist. They can provide you with more information and help you develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
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