Effects of delaying treatment

The effects of delaying the treatment of tooth or gum disease can negatively affect your dental and medical health. Many of the foods you eat cause the bacteria in your mouth to produce acids, which then cause plaque to build up on your teeth. Plaque produces substances that irritate your gums and if not cared for properly, your gums can pull away from your teeth and pockets of bacteria and pus will form. If this condition is left untreated your teeth can be destroyed. If you're not seeing a dentist regularly, you're not getting the professional cleanings and polishing that your teeth need no matter how adept you are at brushing or flossing. Your dentist uses high-powered irrigation devices to clean between your teeth and applies a dental polish that helps prevent surface cavities. Decay can affect your teeth, gums, and the bone structure of your jaw. If your bone becomes infected your physical health can be put in jeopardy. Surgery will be necessary to extract the decayed tooth and remove the infected portion of the bone. Your dental and medical health are related. Medical problems can lead to poor dental health. Among other conditions, if you suffer from diabetes, cancer, or an immune deficiency, proper dental care is vital. It's important to tell both your dentist and your medical doctor any dental or general health conditions that you have.