A lot of people take the health of their gums for granted. Gum health tends to be overlooked, while the color and cleanliness of the teeth are given more priority.
Gum health can affect your physical health if neglected. When it comes to the overall health of your mouth, it isn’t all about how bright your smile is or how straight your teeth are. Even if you have the pearliest smile in the block or are cavity-free, that does not mean that you don’t have gum disease. Gum disease is typically painless that a lot of people are not aware that they have it.
Did you know that poor oral health and gum disease are associated with some major chronic diseases? To understand how gum disease can impact your health and how to keep it at bay, here are some tips from your Dallas dentist.
Gum disease
Your gums are designed to help protect your teeth, forming a tight seal to keep your teeth away from bacteria.
Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that starts when there is a plaque buildup along and under the gum line. It can affect the bone that supports and surrounds your teeth.
Without proper gum care, food particles and bacteria can find their way in your teeth. Failing to remove plaque through everyday flossing and brushing can cause your teeth to eventually become lose and fall out.
Gum disease and your health
As with any bodily infection, the effects of gum disease can range from mild to severe.
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis can cause your gums to become tender, swollen, red, inflamed, and prone to bleeding. This damage is reversible, since the tissue and bone holding the teeth aren’t impacted.
Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease. It affects the bones that hold your teeth in place. Left untreated, it causes the destruction of your tooth’s bony structure, and can eventually lead to the spread of bacteria throughout your body.
The American Dental Association gives these warning signs of gum disease:
- Loose permanent teeth
- Consistent bad breath/taste
- Swollen, tender, or red gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Gums that have pulled away from your teeth
Recent studies have revealed that those with periodontal disease have a high risk of developing the following conditions:
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Osteoporosis
- Chronic respiratory disease
- Pregnancy complications
Bottom line is, plaque-causing bacteria that is not properly removed can release toxins that inflame the gums. The good news is, gum disease is preventable. Keep your gums healthy by doing the following:
- Get regular dental cleanings
- Floss
- Brush regularly
- Quit smoking
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Maintain a healthy diet
At Dallas Dental Wellness, we take gum health seriously. If you suspect that you have gum disease, see your Dallas dentist right away. The sooner you treat it, the better.
Sources:
“Gum Disease.” American Dental Association, https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/g/gum-disease.
Kim, Jemin. Amar, Salomon. “Periodontal disease and systemic conditions: a bidirectional relationship.” US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Sept. 2006, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2443711/.
“How to Keep Your Gums and Teeth Healthy.” University of Rochester Medical Center, https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=1409.
