Perodontist Patient Question: Are There Medical Consequences If I Delay Treatment?

Here is a question we’re asked frequently:

Are there medical consequences if I delay treatment?

It’s a normal question and one that could be asked because patients tend to balance treatment against fears of surgical procedures, financial issues, scheduling, second opinions and other reasons.

It’s important to remember that each and every patient is unique and the level of issues and required treatment is different.

Overall, most issues can be pushed back to some degree if needed. The doctor, after having reviewed your teeth, gums and past oral health history, will advise you on what needs to be treated sooner rather than later.

It’s also important to note that recent research has shown that patients with periodontal disease or other periodontal issues are more likely to have these medical problems:

• Heart disease and heart attack
• Strokes
• Pre-term childbirth
• Diabetes
•  Respiratory Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive, painless infection. Quite often, the effects of the disease don’t present themselves until a lot of damage has been done — and it’s at this point that actions need to be taken by your periodontist.

Delay can cause you further disease progression, tooth and bone loss, more pain and potentially more expense.

The best advice is to speak openly and candidly with your doctor. Share your concerns and listen to what they will advise as part of their treatment strategy.

More questions for a local periodontist? Let’s chat.

If you have questions for a periodontist – please contact our offices. We’d be happy to talk more with you!

Deerfield Beach office: (954) 427-5700