|
Have you ever wondered if the health of your teeth and gums can lead to increased health problems in other areas of your body? It is now known that as research advances, the link between cardiovascular health and oral health increases. Maintaining good oral hygiene is no longer only for prevention of bad breath or cavities; it is now in direct reference of potentially preventing heart disease. Research has shown a strong correlation between gum disease and heart disease. The same plaque that accumulates on your teeth can lead to a heart attack or stroke. If you think about it, daily brushing, flossing and regular check-ups aren't just about saving your teeth- it's about protecting your cardiovascular system and even saving your life. The Connection Gum disease might be an early sign of cardiovascular problems. Heart disease can be hard to detect early because many of the symptoms are not very visible or known. You can't feel your arteries hardening or your cholesterol rising, but you can notice bleeding of your gums. The bacteria that are present in infected gums can come loose, moving throughout the body. Bacteria can become dislodged simply by brushing, flossing or even chewing and may enter your body through an open cut or wound. Irritating your gums, the same bacteria that cause gum disease can travel to your arteries. If you do not want these bacteria in your mouth, then you certainly do not want or need it in your arteries or any other part of your body for that matter. Some research has suggested that gum disease may be more serious of a risk factor for heart disease than high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, gender and age. Your risk of developing cardiovascular disease varies according to the severity of the gum infection and the worse it is, the more likely the bacteria are to become blood-borne. Bacteria can enter your bloodstream when your gums are bleeding, resulting in access to your heart, so protect your heart and maintain good oral hygiene. Preventing Gum Disease With close monitoring from your dentist, gum disease can be prevented and treated. It is never too soon to visit your dentist for more information. Prevention and early detection are your best defenses to gum disease. Brush and floss regularly, eat a well-balanced diet, exercise and visit your dentist for routine cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist can identify an infection and other health problems in their earliest stages and administer the appropriate treatment to restore your gums back to health. In addition, smoking, hormonal changes in females, diabetes, medications, illnesses and genetics can all lead to gum disease. Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated in developing gum disease. It can also lower your chances of a successful treatment so why not quit smoking? Warning Signs Your dentist can detect gum disease early, making it easier to diagnose and treat. Warning signs of gum disease may include:
• Bad breath that won't go away
• Red or swollen gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Receding gums or longer appearing teeth
If any of these symptoms persist, a serious problem may be developing and you should visit your dentist for a check-up. With proper diagnosis and treatment, gum disease may be eliminated. There are many new treatments available to control and reverse gum disease. Talk to your local dentist in Marietta for more information on treatments, preventions and warning signs of gum disease that may lead to heart disease. It is important to visit your dentist for check-ups to keep an accurate account of your oral health.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Marietta dentist, Dr. Kirk Kimmerling. Providing the best in dental care that Marietta has to offer, Dr. Kimmerling is qualified to handle any dental need for patients of every age including veneers, root canal therapy and teeth whitening in Marietta and Kennesaw.
|
