Some individuals don’t take good care of their teeth. This may happen because of simple negligence, while others may not see a dentist because they’re afraid of them. Fear of dentists is common, and some people find themselves unable to overcome it.
If you don’t see a dentist regularly, though, you’re a more likely candidate to develop periodontal disease as time passes. You might see a great Sandy, UT, dentist if you’re worried about developing periodontal disease. First, though, let’s discuss this condition to ensure you understand it.
What is Periodontal Disease?
The term “periodontal disease” covers a fairly wide cross-section of different conditions. If you hear a dentist use that term, they’re talking about inflammation or infection of the teeth or gums that has been left untreated.
We spoke a moment ago about individuals who are afraid of seeing a dentist or who feel like getting regular dental checkups is unnecessary. Periodontal disease happens very often in these individuals, especially if they let years go by without getting a professional to look at their teeth.
What Causes It?
Bacteria in the mouth are usually the cause of untreated periodontal disease or discomfort. These bacteria accumulate until they infect the tissues surrounding your teeth.
If that happens, it can get quite painful very quickly. Bacteria that stay on your teeth without you getting rid of them cause the film dentists call plaque. This hardens until it becomes tartar. It is this substance that a dentist wants to clean off your teeth every time you see them every six months.
What if You Let the Situation Continue Unchecked?
You might be able to ignore your mouth pain for a while, but eventually, it’s going to catch up with you. You probably will not be able to drink cold beverages anymore. You might not even be able to bite into or chew most foods without it being a painful experience.
Eventually, if you still won’t see a dentist to get the matter resolved, your teeth can fall out. The gums are in such bad shape that they’re no longer able to nurture the teeth and keep them rooted in place. This is the function of healthy gums, and periodontal disease robs them of their ability to hold your teeth in place.
What Else Happens?
In addition to all of that, you will probably experience a very unpleasant odor coming from your mouth. The tartar on your teeth causes a smell like something rotting.
You might reach a point where someone will recoil from the smell if you try to talk to them. Your significant other may not want to kiss you anymore. You might also feel embarrassed about the condition of your teeth and mouth when you try to socialize.
Leaving periodontal disease untreated is a grave mistake. You might get away with it for a while, but it’s always going to catch up with you. That’s why you need to eventually see a dentist, even if you’re afraid to do it.