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Keep your mouth healthy! Practicing good oral hygiene has been proven to have positive effects on your overall health. Gum disease is a serious infection and should always be taken seriously. Research has shown a strong correlation between gum disease and heart disease. This means that the same plaque that accumulates on your teeth can lead to a heart attack or stroke. Protect your cardiovascular system with simple tasks such as daily brushing, flossing and regular check-ups. A Direct Relation between Gum and Heart Disease Bacteria present in infected gums can come loose and move throughout the body. This can happen by simply brushing, flossing or even chewing and may enter your body through an open cut or wound. The same bacteria that causes gum disease and irritates your gums might travel to your arteries. Some research suggests that gum disease may be a more serious 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. The worse your gum infection is, the more likely the bacteria in your mouth are to become blood-borne. When infected gums bleed, it makes it easier for the bacteria to enter your bloodstream, resulting in access to your heart. Begin Prevention Now Gum disease can be easily prevented with the help of your local dentist and by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly, eat a well-balanced diet, exercise and visit your dentist for routine cleanings and check-ups. In addition, smoking, hormonal changes in girls/women, 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? 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. Warning Signs When detected early, gum disease can be treated by your Kansas City dentist. Some of the warning signs of gum disease 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 exist or persist, this may be a sign of a serious problem and should be checked by your dentist immediately. With proper diagnosis and treatment, gum disease may be eliminated with the help of your local dentist.
There are many new treatments available to control and help reverse gum disease. Talk to your local dentist in Kansas City 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 Dr. Gregory Stiver, a leading dentist in Kansas City. Offering a wide array of services including bonding, cosmetic fillings, veneers, whitening and extractions this cosmetic dentist in Kansas City is qualified to handle any dental need for patients of all ages. This Kansas City dentist also serves patients in Leawood and Loch Lloyd.
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