You may already know that periodontal disease can cause a number of undesirable conditions in your mouth – red, swollen gums and bleeding, to name a few – but did you know that it can also affect other areas of your body as well? At the office of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen in Norman, OK, we treat all stages of gum disease to help you avoid the potentially dangerous consequences associated with this common oral health condition.
The Unexpected Connection
While the detrimental effects of periodontal disease are bad enough, the complications that can arise when the condition is left untreated are far worse. Aside leading to oral inflammation, pain and an increased risk of tooth loss, the bacteria that causes advanced gum disease can spread throughout your body and wreak havoc on vital organs and tissues. Some of the most common complications associated with untreated periodontal disease are:
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Low birth weight and preterm delivery (in mothers with periodontitis)
Fortunately, proper treatment of the infection can significantly reduce your risk of developing these often life-threatening conditions. Dr. Carmen’s preventative periodontal therapy can restore the health of your gums and teeth, protecting you from these and other diseases. Following treatment, you simply continue to brush and floss twice per day and visit the office every six months for routine checkups and cleanings.
If you or a loved one suffers from untreated periodontal disease and you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier you, contact us at our Norman, OK office today to find out how Dr. Carmen can help you. We also serve patients throughout the surrounding areas of Moore, Central Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma and beyond.
Many dental patients are surprised to learn that the most common oral health ailment isn’t something simple like cavities or teeth grinding – it’s gum disease. In fact, a staggering 80% of the population is projected to suffer from a stage of this ailment. Also commonly referred to as a periodontal disease, gum disease is relatively harmless in its earliest stages, but if left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences, including bone deterioration and tooth loss. That’s why it’s so important to attend regular check-ups here in 
When asked to name common oral health problems, most of us would probably choose culprits like cavities or unsightly enamel stains – but did you know that nearly 80% of the population is suffering from a stage of gum disease today?