Gum disease is often difficult to detect in its earliest stages, in many cases going unnoticed. However, this disease can have serious long-term consequences for both oral and overall health. Gum disease can lead to gum and tooth infection, abscesses, and tooth loss, but there's evidence that it can also affect your cardiovascular health and blood sugar control.
Fortunately, gum disease is preventable, with good at-home and professional dental care. And if you do develop gum disease, your dentist can provide effective treatment.
Gum Disease and Your Health
Gum disease is an oral disease that develops when bacteria grow along the gum line. The bacteria that live here feed on dietary sugars, and as they feed, they deposit a substance called plaque onto the teeth. Plaque is sticky and acidic, and, if not removed via brushing and flossing, hardens into tartar that can only be removed safely by your dentist.
As bacteria infect the gum line they cause inflammation, which makes the gums tender and causes them to bleed during brushing. These are the early warning signs of gum disease also known as gingivitis.
If gingivitis isn't treated, it progresses to periodontal disease where bacteria start to grow below the gum line. They deposit plaque beneath the gums and cause inflammation, which breaks down gum tissue over time. This causes the teeth to loosen and eventually fall out. As the infection progresses, tooth roots and the underlying jawbone may become infected.
Gum disease can also have consequences that affect more than just your oral health. For instance, gum disease can contribute to the poor cardiovascular health and can make it harder for people with diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels. Studies show that people with gum disease have a higher risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart attack. The reasons for this are not well understood as yet; however, one possibility is that bacteria in the gums are able to enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in other parts of the body.
Preventing Gum Disease
The most effective ways to prevent gum disease are with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, and daily mouthwash use are all important for preventing gum disease.
- Flossing removes food particles in between teeth and hard to reach places that would otherwise feed oral bacteria
- Brushing removes plaque before it can harden into tartar
- Mouthwash helps kill bacteria, an insurance policy that keeps your breath smelling fresh
Regular dental visits are essential for professional cleaning and dental exams to monitor the health of your gums.
Keep Your Smile and Your Health in Good Standing
Gum disease can have serious consequences for your oral health, but it’s now clear that the risks go much further. Good at-home dental care, along with regular dental visits, is the best way to keep gum disease and its consequences at bay.