There are astonishing links between oral health and overall health. What if you could brush and floss daily to prevent a heart attack?
That might be a stretch but there is a connection between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, and complications in pregnancy. Research continues to move forward but good oral health can really give you a head start on avoiding disease in the body.
Gum disease is also referred to as periodontal disease and encompasses the various stages of the disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontal literally translates to "around the tooth".
Interestingly, as the disease progresses it manages to burrow itself more completely around the affected tooth or teeth. The beginning stage of gum disease is gingivitis, which occurs when plaque buildup begins to inflame the gums causing them to redden, swell and easily bleed.
Gingivitis can show up as bleeding gums. Some people have sensitive gums in general but if your gums bleed out of the blue, it could be gingivitis. If diagnosed and treated, gingivitis is completely reversible.
If gingivitis is not treated, it can lead to periodontitis, which occurs when plaque spreads below the gumline. The bacteria associated with plaque produces toxins, which trigger further inflammation.
Over time, this heightened inflammatory response will ultimately deteriorate the bones and tissue that support the affected teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Once periodontitis sets in, treatment is crucial to manage the inflammation and minimize damage.
Diabetics run a particularly high risk of gum disease, developing the disease at a rate 3 to 4 times higher than non-diabetics. The suspected culprit is the body's inflammatory response, which can have devastating effects on blood sugar control.
Diabetics with untreated gum disease find it nearly impossible to manage their blood sugar levels and diabetes therapies often fail to work. However, with regular treatment for gum disease, blood sugar levels can generally be controlled effectively.
Here are some tips to ensure a healthy mouth:
* Make sure to brush after every meal and floss daily
* See your hygienist every four to six months for a thorough cleaning
* If you notice swelling, redness or bleeding in your gums, consult your dentist right away
* If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, follow and complete your treatment plan as described by your dentist, hygienist and periodontist.
* See your dentist every six months for an examination and annually for radiographs
By following these guidelines and regularly seeing your dentist, you can increase your chances of not only a healthy mouth but also a healthy body.
Author Resource:-
Jack R. Landry is a former dental assistant and has authored hundreds of articles relating to oral health and cosmetic dentist in Las Vegas. He has been a guest dental lecturer for over 15 years.
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