How Gum Disease Affects Your Body
Familiar with gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease? It’s an oral infection attributed to bacterial activity. Chances are, you’ve come across mentions of it in dental commercials, advertisements for toothpaste, and discussions with your dentist – often pointing the finger at a common culprit: plaque.
Gum disease can be elusive to detect, especially for individuals who don’t maintain regular appointments at their local dental office. This is primarily due to its classification as a “silent disease.” In most cases, it doesn’t manifest significant pain or discomfort, thus lacking a prominent physical reminder. Consequently, individuals may unintentionally overlook or postpone addressing it, given the absence of conspicuous symptoms.
The Causes of Gum Disease
Your oral cavity serves as a vital gateway to your body’s interior. Apart from breaks in the skin, your nose represents the next common entry point for a myriad of bacteria, pollen, and airborne particles. Consequently, maintaining exemplary oral hygiene takes on significant importance. Neglecting this aspect can pave the way for gum disease, setting the stage for a cascade of potential health concerns.
In the realm of gum disease causation, plaque and tartar take center stage. Though not the most pleasant topic, our mouths harbor a diverse array of bacteria. Ever taken a close look at your teeth in the mirror and noticed a colorless film covering them? That’s what we call plaque, and it marks the initial step towards the development of gum disease. Fortunately, a regular brushing and flossing routine effectively rids the mouth of plaque.
However, if plaque is left unaddressed, it undergoes a transformation, solidifying into what we call tartar. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be dislodged by conventional brushing methods. Removal of tartar necessitates the expertise of a dental professional through a process known as professional dental cleaning, administered by your dentist.
Gum Disease and the Rest Of The Body
Gum disease isn’t just confined to your dental health; its impact can reach far beyond your mouth. Although it may originate as a localized oral issue, gum disease can have systemic effects on your overall well-being. In the following paragraphs, we’ll explore how gum disease can influence various aspects of your health.
1. Heart Health Connection: Emerging research has unveiled a strong correlation between gum disease and heart disease. The inflammation triggered by gum disease can contribute to the development of cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), potentially increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
2. Diabetes and Gum Disease: For individuals with diabetes, maintaining gum health is particularly crucial. Gum disease can complicate blood sugar management, potentially leading to difficulties in diabetes control and an elevated risk of associated complications.
3. Respiratory Problems: In advanced cases of gum disease, there’s a risk of aspirating bacteria from the oral cavity, which can result in respiratory infections, including pneumonia. This poses a significant concern, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
4. Pregnancy Complications: Expectant mothers with gum disease face an elevated risk of pregnancy-related complications, including preterm birth and low birth weight for their infants. The inflammation and infection associated with gum disease can adversely affect both maternal and fetal health.
Treat and Prevent Gum Disease in Prosper, TX
Ready to take proactive steps to address and prevent gum disease? Prosper & Smile Dental Care is here to help you safeguard your oral health and overall well-being. Don’t wait until gum disease progresses further; our experienced team is ready to provide expert care and guidance. Schedule an appointment today to receive a comprehensive dental evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and professional dental cleaning services. Your journey to a healthier smile and a healthier you begins here. Act now, and let us partner with you on the path to optimal oral health.