How Does Periodontal Disease Affect Overall Health
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection causing inflammation and deterioration of the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Left untreated, this condition can ultimately lead to tooth loss and affect your overall health.
According to a recent CDC report, 47.2% of adults aged 30 and over have some form of periodontal disease. This number increases with age, with 70.1% of those 65 and older affected by it.
At Chew Dental Group in Fremont, California, we specialize in providing exceptional dental care – including treatments for periodontal disease.
How Can Gum Disease Affect My Overall Health?
Gum disease is a serious condition that can have far-reaching effects on your overall health. The bacteria associated with gum disease can spread throughout the body if left untreated, making it even more important to take steps to prevent or treat it.
Good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential for keeping your gums healthy and reducing your risk of gum disease. It's important to take gum disease seriously and seek treatment if you think you may be at risk. Regular checkups with your dentist can help identify any signs of gum disease early so you can get the treatment you need before it becomes more serious.
Diabetes
Periodontal disease and diabetes are linked in a two-way relationship. Not only can diabetes make periodontal disease worse, but the reverse is also true. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to gum (periodontal) disease, which in turn can increase blood glucose levels and make it harder to manage diabetes. Left untreated, your retina, kidney, and cardiovascular health can quickly decline.
Heart Disease
Gum disease is linked to an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease Bacteria from the gums (plaque) can enter the bloodstream and lead to inflammation of the arteries. This inflammation and blockage caused by these toxins increase your chance of suffering a stroke or a heart attack.
Pregnancy Complications
It is essential that you take steps to protect your oral health, especially during pregnancy. Periodontal disease can be a serious issue for pregnant women, as hormones in the body can cause inflammation of the gums, making them more susceptible to gum disease.
Research has shown that pregnant women with gum disease are at an increased risk of delivering premature babies or babies with low birth weight. Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight may have weakened immune systems and be more prone to catching illnesses such as colds, flu, and respiratory diseases.
Respiratory Disease
Good oral hygiene is important for your overall health, including your respiratory health. Bacteria in your mouth can cause cavities and gum infections, which can be reservoirs for bacteria that can cause pneumonia and other lung diseases. Regular dentist appointments will help you avoid any issues with your oral health that could lead to problems with your lungs.
How Does Periodontal Disease Affect Existing Health Conditions?
While the exact connection between oral health and overall health is still being studied, researchers have found potential links between periodontal disease and a variety of systemic medical conditions.
Some of these include:
Stroke
Cancer
Arthritis
Osteoporosis
Dementia
Diabetes
If you already have any of the above conditions it's essential to practice good oral hygiene habits in order to maintain your dental health.
How to Prevent Periodontal Disease
Here are 5 tips to avoid periodontal disease:
Practice excellent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Rinse your mouth with water after meals.
Watch what you eat. Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid sugary drinks and processed foods.
If you use tobacco, quit. Smoking and chewing tobacco can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
Reduce your stress levels. Chronic stress can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to infection.
Get regular dental care. See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Early detection and treatment of periodontal disease can help prevent serious complications.
How Do Dentists Cure Gum Disease?
Gum disease is a serious issue that can lead to tooth loss and other health problems. Fortunately, dentists can treat it using periodontic procedures.
Scaling & Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are two procedures we use in conjunction to scrape and remove tartar, bacteria, and bacterial products your teeth and beneath your gumline.
Pocket Irrigation
Pocket irrigation involves spraying a thin stream of water below your gums to flush out debris and bacteria.
While you can use pocket irrigation as a standalone cleaning method, it doesn’t work well to treat periodontal disease on its own. We often use it to flush plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums after other procedures like scaling and root planing.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
In pocket reduction surgery, a dentist or oral surgeon will remove part of your gums to minimize the depth of your pockets to allow for easier cleaning and less room for bacteria to live.
Get Treatment for Periodontal Disease in Fremont, CA
At Chew Dental Group, we are committed to providing outstanding dental care for our patients. Our team of experienced staff uses the latest technologies to ensure that you receive the highest quality of care.
If you're looking for a dentist in Fremont, CA, look no further than Chew Dental Group! We are here to provide you with the best care possible. Give us a call today for more information about our services!