Scientific Research suggests that advanced gum disease(periodontal disease) may be linked to Diabetes, Cardiovascular Problems and Pre-Term birth.  In addition it causes bad breath and if left untreated can be a leading cause of tooth loss and does anyone really want to go around with stinky breath and/or no teeth when there is a simple solution… visiting your dentist on a regular basis.

The early stage of gum disease is gingivitis which affects a majority of all adult Americans at some point in their lives, and most aren’t even aware of it. Gingivitis, while common, may progress to a more serious condition, periodontal disease.  Yes it’s a disease but it is a disease that can be controlled with more frequently professional tooth cleanings at your dentist.  Typically 3 – 4 times per year until it’s under control.

Studies show that periodontal disease, if left untreated, over time can affect the health of your entire body.  Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that has been shown to weaken the teeth’s support system which over time can cause tooth loss.

A less medically serious but more socially serious side effect of periodontal disease is Bad Breath.  In fact, poor oral hygiene and gum disease are the primary causes of chronic bad breath. 

Did you know that ideal general health starts with optimal oral health?  Failure to adequately care for your teeth and gums can result in the development of medical conditions far more serious than gum disease and tooth loss.

Studies suggest that a number of secondary health issues can be caused as a result of poor oral hygiene.  The mouth is often the mirror of the body.  Many diseases appear first in the mouth and are thus found while the patient is in the dental chair.

Research has shown and experts agree that there is a link between periodontal(gum) diseases and other chronic inflammatory conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. 

When an inflammatory condition is suspected or diagnosed, it is important to consult with both a general physician and a dental health professional. Sometimes the only way to detect periodontal diseases is through a periodontal evaluation. A periodontal evaluation may be especially important if you:

• Have a high risk for periodontal diseases.
• Have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease or osteoporosis, or are thinking of becoming pregnant.
• Have a sore or irritation in your mouth that does not get better within two weeks.

Ugh!!! Gum Disease!!

Make a commitment to yourself to improve your health and your smile today.  Did you know that 4 out of 5 people are walking around with the worst silent killer of teeth and it’s called periodontal disease to us dental clinical types but your probably no it as Gum Disease.

Yes it’s a disease, yes it can get kind of gross, but it is easily treatable and maybe even reversible if you stick with it!

Did you know gum disease has been linked to heart disease?   Yep and why do you think we stress flossing between your teeth so much?  If that food stays trapped between the teeth for hours and hours and days and days it causes the bacteria in your mouth to propagate and release toxins that cause the gums to become inflamed and bleed.  Yikes! 

So if it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, don’t be embarrassed…. Just Do It, make an appointment today and get yourself taken care of!

What is gum (periodontal) disease?

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth.  It is a major cause of tooth loss, bleeding gums, and bad breath in adults.  Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it.

What can cause gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. There are other factors that can contribute to gum disease including:

• Hormonal Changes such as those occurring during pregnancy and menopause
• Illnesses including cancer, HIV, and diabetes
• Medications that lessen the flow of saliva
• Smoking makes it harder for the gum tissue to repair itself
• Not brushing and flossing on a daily basis
• Family History of dental disease 

What are the signs of gum (periodontal) disease?

• gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• red, swollen or tender gums
• gums that have pulled away from teeth
• bad breath that doesn’t go away
• loose teeth
• a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

What can happen if gum disease isn’t detected and treated?

If gum disease isn’t treated the gums and bone that support the teeth can become seriously damaged.  The teeth can become loose and fall out or will have to be removed by a dentist.  Then you would either get dentures, or have no teeth and eat applesauce for the rest of your days.  Hmmm!  A visit to the dentist is sounding better and better.

How can I prevent and control gum disease?

The good news is that you can help prevent gum disease by taking good care of your teeth everyday and having regular dental checkups. 

• Brush your teeth well twice per day.
• Clean between your teeth everyday.  Early gum disease can be reversed by daily brushing and flossing.
• Eat a balanced diet
• Visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and checkup
• Stop smoking
• Check out this video on treatments for periodontal disease from the American Dental Association