Many people consider gum disease a minor issue that can be easily treated with little brushing and flossing. However, what if gum disease shows something more serious going on in your body? In this post, we’ll explore some potential links between gum disease and other health problems. By understanding the connection between gum health and overall health, you can better care for your teeth and your body.
Gum Disease As An Early Warning Sign
Gum disease can start with minor symptoms like swollen or bleeding gums, bad breath, redness, or soreness in the gums. In its early stages, gum disease can usually be managed with improved oral hygiene practices like brushing twice daily and flossing once daily. However, if left untreated, it can progress to a much more severe condition known as periodontitis. This is when the gums become so infected that they pull away from your teeth and form pockets where bacteria can accumulate and cause further damage to your teeth and gums.
Gum Disease & Other Health Conditions
Recent research suggests that there may be a link between gum disease and other health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancers of the head and neck area, chronic kidney failure (CKD), erectile dysfunction (ED), asthma, pregnancy complications and more. It is believed that inflammation caused by gum disease triggers the body’s immune system to respond in harmful ways, which could contribute to other illnesses. But, you should realize that this is still only a theory – future research will need to be done to determine how closely linked these conditions are.
Diagnosing & Treating Gum Disease
Suppose you believe you have some of the signs of gum disease. In that case, it’s essential to see your dentist immediately so they can accurately diagnose the problem and begin the treatment process if necessary. The sooner you catch it, the easier it will be to treat effectively, so pay attention to all warning signs! Your dentist may recommend improved oral hygiene techniques such as brushing twice daily with an electric toothbrush or using an antibacterial mouthwash regularly. They also suggest scaling and root planing (SRP), which involves removing plaque buildup from below your gum line, as well as antibiotics or laser therapy, depending on the severity of your condition.
Final Words
We should all take gum disease seriously since it could indicate other severe medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. Regular dental check-ups are essential for detecting any signs of gum disease early on, so make sure you keep up with them! If left untreated, it could lead to even more significant problems in the days to come. So, don’t wait until it gets out of hand – see your dentist today if you think you might have any symptoms!
Book an appointment with Valley Smiles if you want top-quality in Phoenix, AZ. Our dentist and a team of experienced dental professionals are always here to assist you with the best dental care.
