A toothache or bleeding gums may seem like a small problem, but dental disease can progress even when symptoms come and go. Untreated decay can lead to pain and infection. Gum disease can damage the tissues and bone that support your teeth, making chewing difficult and eventually causing tooth loss. Your oral health is also connected to the rest of your body. In people with diabetes, poor gum health can make blood sugar harder to control. Dental pain or missing teeth can affect what you eat, while an untreated dental abscess needs prompt care because the infection can spread. Do not wait for severe pain. See a dentist if you have persistent toothache, swollen or bleeding gums, pain when chewing, or swelling around a tooth. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth, and attend regular dental checkups. If you have facial swelling with difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care.