Gum disease is a serious problem that affects more than 1 billion people worldwide. If you suffer from gum disease, it’s important to get it under control as soon as possible. Gum health impacts your overall health, which means getting the dental care you need can help you protect your body from infection.
Why Gum Health Matters
Gum care is often overlooked in overall health routines, but dental and medical professionals agree that gum disease impacts more than just your mouth.
Healthy gums support both oral and systemic wellness. Moreover, infections in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body, causing problems with other organs, pregnancy, and more. If you have gum disease, it’s essential to get care from the dentist.
What Is Gum Disease?
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the early, reversible stage of gum disease. The symptoms of gingivitis include:
- Mild gum pain
- Redness
- Bleeding while brushing
- Minor swelling
Gum disease is treated with improved oral hygiene and professional cleanings. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend a “deep cleaning”, which involves root planing and scaling, an intensive form of treatment that cleans bacteria beneath the gums.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is the advanced, irreversible stage of gum disease. Periodontitis causes permanent damage to the gum and bone tissue. Symptoms of periodontitis include:
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
- Painful chewing
- Bad breath
- Bite changes
Periodontitis requires professional treatment to manage and stop the progression of the infection.
How Gum Disease Impacts Whole-Body Health
Gum disease triggers inflammation that affects organs and increases disease risk.
Health Conditions Linked to Gum Disease
- Heart Disease: Inflammation can contribute to cholesterol and artery plaque formation.
- Diabetes: Gum infections can raise blood sugar and make diabetes more difficult to control.
- COVID-19: Periodontitis may increase the severity of infections and complications.
- Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD): Preliminary studies suggest oral inflammation may aggravate GI issues.
- Mental Health: Tooth loss and gum disease can cause self-consciousness, social withdrawal, and depression.
What Causes Gum Disease?
There are many causes of gum disease.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Plaque buildup from inadequate brushing and flossing can cause gum disease as well as other dental problems.
- Diet: High-carb and sugary foods feed bacteria that create plaque. Eating sugary snacks and drinking sugary drinks can contribute to gum disease over time.
Additional Risk Factors:
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Certain medications
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Dry mouth
- Genetics
Prevention Tips to Maintain Gum Health
If you would like to avoid gum disease, there are many things you can do to take care of your teeth.
- Don’t Smoke: Tobacco use increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancers.
- Avoid Heavy Alcohol Use: Alcohol consumption contributes to poor oral health.
- Be Cautious with Antibacterial Mouthwash: Use antibacterial mouthwash only under dental supervision.
- Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste to protect enamel.
- Floss Daily: Use a water flosser if traditional flossing is difficult.
- Eat a Low-Carb Diet: A low-carb diet reduces bacterial fuel and plaque buildup.
- Visit the Dentist Regularly: Get dental cleanings every six months or more frequently if needed.
When was the last time you had a dental cleaning in Tampa, Florida? If it’s been a while, contact the dental professionals at Weninger Dentistry for a dental exam and cleaning in Tampa, Florida. Call today to make your next dental appointment.