Gum disease affects more than just your oral health. It’s also been connected to an increased risk of heart disease. In addition, gum problems can affect your ability to maintain a healthy diet. Taking care of your gums can help prevent these issues and enable you to keep yourself in the best of health.
Health Risks Associated with Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs when bacteria builds up around your teeth. It can collect in the space between the teeth and the gums, causing inflammation and eventual infection. As infection becomes worse, the gum tissue begins to pull away from the teeth. If left untreated, this can cause the teeth to become loose or even eventually fall out. Treatment might require gum surgery if the condition becomes serious enough.
In addition to causing problems with your teeth, gum disease can lead to inflammation in other areas of the body. The bacteria that causes infection in the gums can spread through your system. The presence of gingivitis and more severe periodontal infection has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Also, if you lose your teeth, you’ll have difficulty eating fresh fruits and vegetables and other foods that are vital to your health.
Taking Care of Your Gums
The best way to deal with gum disease is prevention. Brush and floss regularly to remove food particles, bacteria, and plaque from your teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing also massage the gum tissues, encouraging healthy blood flow. During your regular visits to the dentist, he’ll evaluate the condition of the pockets around your teeth to see if the gums have begun to pull away due to inflammation.
Other symptoms that you might need treatment for your gum tissues include:
- Redness or swelling
- A persistent bad taste in the mouth
- A shiny look to the gums
- Bleeding when you brush your teeth
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, let your dentist know. If you have developed inflammation or infection in your gums, contact the office of Dr. Benjamin Duval and schedule an appointment today!
