You may already know that if your gums are sensitive to cold or pressure, or bleed when you brush or floss, you can have the beginnings of gum disease. What you may not know is that gum disease can adversely affect your overall health and contribute to the development of certain health conditions.
At Dental Town DC in Washington, DC, our team of experts is dedicated to protecting your oral and overall health. If you have gum disease, she can provide periodontal treatment to help reverse its effects and prevent more serious health issues.
The dangers of gum disease
Gum disease starts off as gingivitis, which typically has no symptoms other than mild gum sensitivity and slight bleeding when you brush or floss. If not treated, gingivitis can develop into full-blown gum disease, also called periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause or exacerbate a number of conditions, including the following:
Diabetes
Periodontal disease has been shown to increase blood sugar levels, which can contribute to diabetic complications.
Heart issues
People with inflammatory diseases often see an impact on their heart health, and gum disease is a continual state of inflammation. Researchers have found that people with poor brushing habits have three times more risk of developing heart disease.
Joint pain
According to researchers at Johns Hopkins, the same bacterium that often triggers severe joint pain is identical to the bacterium found in gum infections. It’s thought that bacteria can travel from the gums to the joints, causing flare-ups.
Tooth loss
Gum disease, not cavities or accidents, is the leading cause of tooth loss. Once one tooth is lost, more teeth can quickly follow, leading to problems chewing or talking. You can also develop self-esteem issues due to a damaged smile.
Gum disease prevention and treatment
You can reduce your risk of developing gum disease by getting regular dental cleanings and oral health checkups, and by consistently brushing and flossing at home. If you have gum disease, Our team can provide effective treatment, such as root scaling and planing, to prevent complications and protect your general health. With proper treatment and good oral hygiene habits, gum disease can be slowed, stopped, or even reversed, allowing you to keep your teeth and your smile.
Do you have gum disease, or do you want to see if you do? We can give you a thorough evaluation and get you on the path to good oral health. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Dental Town DC today.