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Dangers of Untreated Gum Disease: What You Need to Know

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There are a number of health issues associated with untreated gum disease. Schedule an appointment to treat any symptoms.

How to Treat Gum Disease
My autistic adult son has been a patient for several years and each year I find the staff to be professional and courteous. My son used to be afraid of going to the dentist but he is at ease each time he is seen. From the dentist to each staff member, everyone and everything is excellent! Thank you for servicing my special needs son!
I have been a patient at the Dental Anesthesia Center for about 20 years! Dr. Hoffman and his team are the premier dental group in the St. Louis area. I believe they are the only location for Dental Anesthesia if you need that service. They are experts in the dental field and I cannot fathom ever going anywhere else. Great team, kind, caring, patient, and looking out for you and your dental needs!
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and continued trust over the years! We’re truly grateful for your support and are honored to have such a caring team dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care.
I have been going here for 30 years and the extra care they take is outstanding.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and longtime support! We truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback and are grateful for the trust placed in our team over the years.
DAC is personable and professional. Highly recommended.
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It was thorough professional and informative. I was satisfied with consultation and look forward to having my dental needs addressed
Response from the owner:Thank you for your 5-star review! We appreciate your kind words and are grateful you took the time to share your feedback. Thank you for your support!

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a prevalent problem for nearly 50% of adults aged 30 years and older. Over the age of 65, gum disease increases as much as 70%. Therefore, gum disease is a serious public health problem that shouldn’t be ignored.

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with periodontal disease, it’s good to know that it’s easily treatable in its early stages. However, it can lead to other issues that affect more than your oral health when left untreated. Untreated gum disease can affect your overall health.

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that, left untreated, will eventually spread to the bones connected to the support and functionality of your teeth. Unfortunately, gum disease is a condition that can develop undetected until it is bad enough to show visible symptoms. The obvious signs of periodontal disease are red, swollen gums, bleeding while brushing your teeth, flossing or eating hard food, bad breath, and receding gums.

Causes for Gum Disease

Gingivitis, or gum disease, starts when food traces get stuck between the teeth or gums and teeth and solidify in a layer called dental plaque. If plaque is not removed soon after forming by brushing and flossing your teeth, it becomes harder and harder, eventually getting so stuck that only a professional cleaning at the dentist will remove it. This hardened plaque is called tartar.

Your gums can and will be irritated by plaque and tartar and will react by swelling, getting red, bleeding, and eventually receding, leaving a big part of the tooth exposed. Gingivitis can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Dangers of Untreated Gum Disease

When gum disease progresses, it can cause gaps in your teeth, receding gums, mouth sores, sensitive teeth, chronic bad breath, and tooth loss. There is also a link between gum disease and health issues like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and others.

Contact the Dental Anesthesia Center

Schedule an appointment with the Dental Anesthesia Center today if you suspect any signs of plaque or tartar build-up on your teeth. That way, you can protect your overall health and have a perfect set of pearly whites.

Call Us Today

The first two board-certified Dentist Anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri.

Updated: October 15, 2026

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