Gum Disease and Overall Health Issues
Beautiful smiles open doors, but beautiful smiles are also healthy. According to Dr. Judy Sturm & Associates people with straight and healthy smiles that are free from missing teeth are also healthier overall.
Overall and Oral Health
Scientists have been researching the connection between gum disease and overall health for well over a decade and although nothing conclusive has been discovered, it is safe to say that people with chronic illness usually suffer from gum disease as well.
What is Gum Disease?
Yorkville dentist Dr. Judy Sturm explains that gum disease infects and inflames the tooth supporting gum tissue and bone. Plaque is the sticky film on teeth caused by bacteria. Plaque inflames gums making them red and swollen. Inflamed gums often bleed when brushed and flossed.
When gum disease is left untreated, it eventually destroys the bone supporting your teeth. Periodontal disease, the more severe form of gum disease, is the number one reason adults lose teeth.
Gingivitis and Overall Health
If you have an infection, your body will react. If that infection is located in your mouth, it is known as gingivitis. Unlike the more serious form of gum disease, gingivitis can be reversed if treated early on. Early signs of gingivitis include swollen, tender, and pink gums.
Periodontal Disease
Also known as periodontitis, the condition could lead to bone loss if left untreated. Occurring over time, periodontal disease is caused by plaque and tartar build up along your gum line.
Your body produces toxins to defend itself against bacteria. This causes a breakdown of your gums and the bones that surround your teeth. While periodontal disease is controllable, it is not curable.
Signs of Gingivitis and Periodontitis
- Bleeding gums when brushing and flossing
- Red, swollen, tender, or puffy gums
- Pockets between your teeth and gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Pus between gums and teeth
- Loose teeth
- Changes in bite and the way teeth fit together
- Changes in the way restorations fit
If you are noticing any of the above, schedule an appointment with your Yorkville dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums and your overall health.
Everyone is Different with Gum Disease
Some people may have all of the signs while others may not notice a thing. The only way to know for sure is to schedule regular dental checkups with your dentist in Toronto.
Gum Disease and Overall Health
Dr. Judy Sturm & Associates explains that certain diseases raise your risk while others seem to have a direct connection with it. Some diseases that are commonly linked with gum disease include:
- Arthritis
- Emphysema
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Liver Disease
- Obesity
- Low Birth Weight and Early Birth
The best way to prevent the oral and overall body connection is to practice good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene habits include brushing twice and flossing once a day, regular dental checkups in Yorkville and eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals and calcium.
If you would like to schedule a dental appointment, call and talk to a team member from Dr. Judy Sturm & Associates today.
