subject: Periodontal diseases and side effects [print this page] Periodontal, or gum disease, effects many more people than you might expect. Early stages of periodontal disease occur in more than half of the people over age 18. After age 35, seventy five percent of people are affected by periodontal disease to some degree.
Periodontal disease destroys the gums that surround your teeth and also can destroy the bone supporting your teeth and holding them in place. The incidence of periodontal disease has been linked to other health problems that involve more than just your teeth.
Other health concerns linked to periodontal disease include a weakened immune system, diabetes,stroke, lung disease, preterm babies, osteoporosis, gastric ulcers and heart disease.
Studies have pointed to a common strain of bacteria in dental plaque that may cause blood clots that could lead to heart attacks or strokes. If a person has periodontal disease, their gums are chronically inflamed and it creates a path for the bacteria to enter the bloodstream.
There are early warning signs of periodontal disease. Some of the signs and symptoms include gums that are red or swollen or bleed easily when you brush your teeth. Other signs are gums that pull away from the teeth or the presence of pus between your teeth and gums. Persistent halitosis, or bad breath, can be another sign of gum disease.
If you have permanent teeth that are becoming loose or separating, or a change in how your teeth fit together when biting, you may have periodontal disease. A change of fit in partial dentures can be another sign of trouble.
Regular visits to your dentist can help you to come up with a course of treatment if you suffer from periodontal disease. Your dentist can monitor your oral hygiene and health and suggest a homecare regimen to forestall any further damage if you have periodontal disease.
