Are You Aware Of The Importance Of Maintaining Your Oral Health?
As dentistry continues to advance, we are finding more connections between the health of your mouth and the health of your body
. Studies suggest that periodontitis is associated with diabetes, heart disease and stroke. However, it does not necessarily mean that one causes the other. It is common for people who have certain diseases, such as heart disease or diabetes, to also have periodontitis. One may cause the other, but it is also possible that these associations are caused by a third factor. For instance, if you smoke you are at an increased risk for periodontitis and a number of other conditions, including heart disease.
What is the Connection?
According to various studies performed, there are three ways oral disease may affect your overall health. The first way is by bacteria from your gums entering the saliva. From the saliva it may adhere to water droplets within the air you inhale each time you breathe. These bacteria laden water droplets may be aspirated into the lungs, potentially causing pulmonary infection and pneumonia. This can be troublesome for the elderly and those who may suffer from generalized weakened immunity.
Secondly, bacteria associated with periodontal disease can enter the body's circulatory system through the gums around the teeth and travel to all parts of the body. As the oral bacteria travels, it may cause secondary infections or it may contribute to the disease process in other tissues and organ systems. Finally, inflammation associated with periodontal disease may stimulate a second systemic inflammatory response within the body and contribute to or complicate other disease entities that may have an inflammatory origin such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and kidney disease. Whatever the route oral bacteria may influence, it is in every patient's best interest to maintain optimal oral health.
Understanding Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth causing localized and systemic inflammation. Gum disease may also be accompanied by loss of supporting tissue and bone. The cause of periodontal disease is a bacterial film known as plaque. As plaque accumulates, the normal bacteria located around teeth begin to change into more virulent and pathogenic bacteria. It is these species of pathogenic bacteria that are responsible for the ensuing infection and destruction of surrounding bone.
Periodontal disease is typically diagnosed by measuring bone loss visible on x-rays and "pocket depth" with a periodontal probe around teeth, which is indicative of the amount of surrounding bone and attachment loss. It is these findings along with visible inflammation and bleeding upon probing that lead to a periodontal disease diagnosis.
Gum Disease Prevention is Key
The good news is that you can help prevent gum disease by maintaining proper oral hygiene and with regular dental checkups. Here is how to keep your teeth and gums healthy:
*Brush your teeth well twice a day
*Clean between your teeth every day with floss
*Eat a well-balanced diet
*Visit your dentist regularly
It is important to visit your dentist in Kentwood and Hastings for regular dental checkups, and professional cleanings to successfully prevent periodontal disease. By maintaining at-home care, in addition to regular visits to your dentist, you can help prevent further complications to not only your oral health, but your overall health as well.
by: Gen Wright
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