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Regular visits to your dentist can do a lot more than keep your smile attractive and prevent cavities. 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. Prevent Gum Disease and Watch for Warning Signs 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. 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. 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 with gum problems. It can also lower your chances of a successful treatment, so why not quit smoking? Detecting gum disease early makes 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. The Connection Between the Health of Your Heart and Your Mouth 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 the 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 also enter your bloodstream when your gums are bleeding, so protect your heart and maintain good oral hygiene. With proper diagnosis and treatment, gum disease may be eliminated. Talk to your local dentist in Oshawa 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. Gold, a leading dentist in Oshawa. Dr. Gold, Oshawa dentist, has been a dentist for over 25 years, specializing in teeth whitening, crowns and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Patients of all ages visit Dr. Golds Source Dental for quality service for all of their dental health care needs.
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