Get A Grip On Periodontal Disease
April is Oral Health Month. This is good time to talk about gum disease a condition that can trigger adverse health effects. Any infection in your gum can affect your overall health
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It is caused by the plaque-forming bacteria in your mouth. The plaque hardens into tartar and when tartar forms under the gum line it can both irritate and infect the gums, leading to gum disease.
During early stages of gum disease, removal of plaque, daily brushing, flossing and regular professional dental care can likely reverse the progression of periodontal disease.
Typically periodontal disease starts out with gingivitis then moves unto periodontitis.You need to be tough on dental plaque and do all you can to get rid of it early on.
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease, where the bacteria gets in between the tooth and gum causing inflammation.Ultimately untreated, gingivitis can develop into periodontitis causing damage to the gums, teeth and surrounding bones
Periodontitis is very serious because it destroys the tissue that holds the teeth to the bone, it also results in inflammation, receding gums, decay and tooth loss.
There are several factors that can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease, including
- Tobacco use,
- Various types of medication or therapies
- Some systematic diseases like diabetes.
- Poor dental hygiene
Symptoms of periodontal disease include
- Red, swollen or tender gums or gums that bleed easily or are pulling away from the teeth.
- As well as chronic bad breath, bad taste in the mouth and teeth that are loose or separating.
Early detection is critical so contact your dentist right away if you notice any symptoms of periodontal disease. Take good care of your mouth, that means brushing and flossing everyday and having regular professional checkups. Tartar control is critical.These are all important for the health of your mouth and your overall health.
Medical research indicates that oral bacteria can affect the heart when it enters the blood stream. Oral bacteria is also a suspected agent that plays a role in the inflammatory process that is the cause of atherosclerosis.
As well gum disease may increase the risk of stroke due to blocking arteries. Likewise respiratory disease may devleop from a lung infection if bacteria from the mouth reaches your lungs
Your dental care must be taken seriously it is as important as caring for any “Can't do without ” body part.
For your good health it is essential to maintain healthy teeth and gums, to prevent periodontal disease and the negative health impacts of periodontal disease