Gum Disease - The Effect On Your Health

Periodontal diseases may be isolated to your mouth; however, their effects are not. Maybe you have seen the white papers or other posts on the web speaking to the research coming forth on the relationship between periodontal health and general health. Adding credence to the adage, “You are what you eat.” There are known risk factors for periodontal disease; these include smoking and diabetes. Also as we age periodontal disease can become a dental health issue. Periodontal disease and tooth decay are the leading causes of tooth loss in older adults (1).

Periodontal disease is commonly referred to as gum disease. This is a group of diseases caused by bacterial plaque. This bacteria gathers daily between our teeth and gums. In the absence of effective daily oral hygiene, it will in quick order affect your dental health. In many instances, cases of bad breath (halitosis) are caused by the presence of the aforementioned oral bacteria. As a dentist, I can say first hand, the odor coming from the mouth of a patient with active gum disease is often so distinctive that I can correctly expect the presence of gum problems even before I begin their examination.

The bacteria left untreated will collect between teeth and gums. A daily routine to help combat these bacteria can be as simple as maintain your brushing and flossing. Your periodontal tissues are comprised of four defined structures: (1) gingiva, (2) cementum, (3) alveolar bone, and the (4) periodontal ligament. If the choice is made not to have good oral hygiene, you have an excellent chance of developing gingivitis.

In cases where plaque and tartar stay on teeth, eventually gingiva will become irritated. This will lead to gums becoming swollen, and they will bleed easily.

Research continues to show that Gingivitis can affect other areas of the body and thus health if left untreated. Remember, we started talking about the fact of gum disease originating from bacteria. It should be no surprise that bacteria is not a good thing for our bodies. If the bacterium enter into the bloodstream through our mouth, it can cause infections in other areas of our bodies. Other posts have discussed how gum disease has been connected to cardio vascular disease and pneumonia. When individuals who have gingivitis and diabetes, they can have problems controlling their blood sugar levels.

Taking note of the relationship between oral and general health will hopefully encourage you to schedule regular visits with your physician and dentist.

If you have any questions about gum disease, general dental needs or even cosmetic procedures, please call John Robinson, DMD, at Embry Hills Dental Care 678-383-2622.


Looking to find the more information on Dentist In Tucker, Dental Care In Tucker, then visit www.atlantageneraldentistry.com to find the best advice on Family Dental Care in Tucker for you.


References
(1) APA: Older Adults and Gum Disease. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.perio.org/consumer/smileforlife.htm

The Connection Between Your Mouth and Your Body

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is an infection of the tissues which secure your teeth in place. It is suffice to say good dental health is important. No one ever has a wish to lose their teeth. Periodontal disease is highly prevalent in older adults, affecting; 34% of the American population aged >30 years (; 36 million persons), and it is severe in; 13% of adults*. Periodontal disease is typically caused by inadequate brushing and flossing habits. What are the causes of periodontal disease? Most times it starts with you. Brushing your teeth and flossing after are good habits to start and maintain. Not including brushing and flossing in your routine your mouth is open to a plaque attack. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria left unchecked plaque will build up on teeth and harder.

Various Studies have shown that periodontal disease has important systemic associations which can affect the risk factors for disease such as cardiovascular disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Since there seems to be a connection between oral health care and cardiovascular disease, why not look at some preventative care?

Now there are other reasons for cardiovascular disease can occur. Periodontal disease is preventable, taking a look at your oral health care habits may be useful. Below are some suggestions on how to prevent periodontal disease.

(1) The old standard of brushing your teeth at least two times as day still makes great sense. Now with travel and products like the Colgate Wisp, brushing throughout the day is even easier. Brushing can help to remove plaque on the tongue. This can cause bad breath and is an ideal chance for bacteria to start growing.

(2) Try an electric toothbrush which features rotating and oscillating. You may discover using this type of toothbrush can assist in the removal of plaque. (See our last blog - http://embryhillsdentalcare.blogspot.com/2012/01/is-power-toothbrush-right-for-you.html)

(3) Use an antiseptic mouthwash – there are several, try the one which has good reviews from your dentist

(4) Yes, get in the habit of flossing at least once a day. Curve the floss around each of your teeth. Do not rush. Be gentle as you slide the dental floss just under the gum line. Then use the floss moving it up and down to scrape of the plaque.

Dental care is important to your overall health. There are a lot of advertisements which only focus on a cosmetically appealing smile. However, having a health smile is even more important. You should make and keep your dental appointments. Working with your dental care professional can help you improve your health over the long run.

Article references

(*) Albandar JM, Brunelle JA, Kingman A. Destructive periodontal disease in adults 30 years of age and older in the United States, 1988–1994. J Periodontol 1999; 70:13-29.

When you have questions about periodontal disease, please contact John Robinson, DMD, at Embry Hills Dental Care 678-383-2622.

Looking to find the more information on Dentist In Tucker, Dental Care In Tucker, and then visit www.atlantageneraldentistry.com to find the best advice on Family Dental Care in Tucker for you.