subject: Cosmetic Dentist Reno Dangers of Gum Disease [print this page] There are so many people that take for granted the regular habit of flossing and brushing every single day. Nonetheless, this is a very important habit if you want to reduce your risk for gum disease and other harmful issues that could affect your health for the worse. Studies have shown that more than 75% of Americans have a form of gum disease, which has been linked to serious health problems and long-term dental issues.
Gum disease is otherwise known as periodontal disease, and it is created through tartar and plaque accumulating in the mouth. Some other habits that increase the risk for gum disease are smoking, medications, genetics, and even grinding the teeth. Gum disease includes several categories, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease, and it is often hard to detect. If a dentist is able to detect it, it is actually reversible and can be treated. If the gingivitis is untreated, periodontitis will develop as another stage of gum disease. Since there are numerous levels of periodontitis, it can cause the common symptom of chronic inflammation. This is a symptom of where the tissue and bone will start to break down in the body due to infection in the mouth, and the overall result will be tooth and bone loss.
Some of the most common symptoms of gum disease are swollen, bleeding, and red gums. Other symptoms of gum disease include halitosis, loose teeth, tooth sensitivity, abscessed teeth, and tooth loss. Research has shown that long-term gum disease will also cause a number of health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. If someone developed gingivitis, it will start to increase their risk for stroke and heart disease because of a large amount of bacteria causing infection in the mouth. As periodontitis progresses, the risk of cardiovascular disease also increases as a result. Gum inflammation is associated with heart disease and stroke because it creates inflammation in other areas of the body besides the mouth. One of the greatest groups at risk for gum disease is those with diabetes. Much of this is because of high blood glucose levels in a diabetic, which is why a diabetic must take care of his or her teeth through regular brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease. Anyone who is diabetic must also have regular cleanings and checkups to prevent the spread and development of this disease.
It is important to understand that gum disease can be maintained and prevented through good habits in oral hygiene. To prevent the spread of the disease, you must brush and floss your teeth at a minimum of two times per day. If you do have any of the gum disease symptoms mentioned, make an appointment with your dentist as quickly as possible. The simple act of having routine checkups will make a dramatic difference in the care of your teeth, which is something that you can do to prevent the development of gum disease and the spread of the infection in the long-run to protect your overall health.
