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Gum disease is a common yet easily disregarded condition that affects the health of your gums and teeth and can lead to more severe conditions if not treated by a prosthodontist in Pembroke Pines. 

While many people understand the basics of gum disease—bleeding gums, bad breath, and potential tooth loss—there are many lesser-known aspects of this condition and its consequences that can significantly impact your overall health. 

To help you understand gum disease and the importance of its prompt treatment better, we came up with this article. Here, we’ll explore five surprising facts about gum disease and why it’s so dangerous.  

5 Unknown Facts About Gum Disease  

1. Gum Disease Can Affect Your Heart Health  

There’s a surprising connection between gum disease and heart health. According to research, the bacteria that cause gum disease can infiltrate the bloodstream, causing inflammation and playing a role in atherosclerosis, or the narrowing of arteries. 

This condition limits blood flow and raises the possibility of cardiovascular issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease.   

2. Gum Disease Is Linked to Diabetes 

Another important fact you may not be aware of is that diabetes patients are more vulnerable to gum disease because high blood sugar can harm blood vessels, impairing the gums’ capacity to recover and fend against infections. 

Conversely, gum disease-related inflammation can impede the body’s utilization of insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels and increasing the difficulty of managing diabetes. 

3. Gum Disease Can Lead to Respiratory Problems 

Finding that your oral health affects your lungs may come as a surprise. However, the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter your lungs—especially if you have a weakened immune system. 

Once they enter the lungs, these bacteria can induce respiratory infections like pneumonia or worsen pre-existing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  

4. Pregnancy Complications Can Be Linked to Gum Disease  

Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can increase the susceptibility of gums to infection and inflammation. Sadly, untreated gum disease during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm births, low birth weights, and even preeclampsia, according to research.  

This is because gum disease-causing bacteria have the ability to travel through the bloodstream and infect the placenta, resulting in inflammation. 

Because of that, maintaining optimal oral hygiene is key for expecting mothers. 

5. Gum Disease Doesn’t Always Cause Pain  

One of gum disease’s most deceptive features is that it does not always hurt—especially in its early stages. Because people frequently believe that pain does not indicate a problem, this can give rise to a false sense of security. 

However, by the time pain manifests, the disease may have seriously harmed the gums and the tooth support structures. 

Gum disease can develop quietly and have subtle symptoms that are simple to ignore. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to early signs like bleeding gums, bad breath, or minor gum swelling. 

Learn More from a Prosthodontist in Pembroke Pines  

Gum disease affects teeth but can also significantly impact general health. It is a dangerous condition that needs to be addressed because it can lead to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even pregnancy complications. 

Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits is essential to preventing this dangerous issue. If you’re interested in getting a consultation with a prosthodontist, contact Village Square Dental!