Gum disease has been linked to numerous serious diseases and health conditions, including diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cardiovascular disease. Patients who suspect they have an inflammatory condition should consult with a general physician as well as a periodontist or another dental health professional. In many cases, serious health problems are first detected in a periodontal visit.
Inside our mouths are millions of bacteria. Luckily, most of them are harmless. Practicing good oral health, including daily brushing and flossing, along with the body’s own natural defenses generally are enough to keep these bacteria under control. However, when harmful bacteria grow out of control, they can cause gum disease, tooth decay, and other potentially serious oral infections.
Our Raleigh cosmetic dentists are experienced in helping patients understand how gum disease can affect their overall health. By consulting with patients and stressing the importance of proper dental health, our dedicated cosmetic dentists help patients avoid developing serious medical conditions linked to gum disease and other periodontal diseases.
Diseases Commonly Linked to Gum Disease
Diseases and conditions which have been linked to gum disease and poor oral health include:
- Endocarditis
- Cardiovascular disease
- Premature birth and low birth weight
- Diabetes
- HIV/AIDS
- Osteoporosis
- Alzheimer’s disease
High-Risk Candidates
While practicing good oral health to reduce bacteria and limit infections of the mouth, gums, and teeth is important for everyone, it is especially important for people who:
- Have diabetes, respiratory disease, osteoporosis, or heart disease.
- Are thinking about getting pregnant.
- Have a family history of periodontal disease.
- Have irritation or a sore inside the mouth that does not improve for two weeks.
Also, medications, treatments, or dental procedures that reduce saliva flow can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in your mouth or overcome the mouth’s normal protective barriers. This can make it easier for harmful bacteria in your mouth to enter the bloodstream.
Tips to Preventing Gum Disease
To protect their oral health and prevent gum disease, patients should practice good oral hygiene every day as suggested by the dmagazine experts, including:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
- Replacing your toothbrush every three to four months.
- Flossing daily.
- Eating a healthy diet with limited between-meal snacks.
- Scheduling regular dental checkups.
Gum Disease Treatments
When in its earliest stage of gingivitis, the condition can be treated with a professional dental cleaning and a good oral health care routine. If gingivitis is not treated, your treatment plan will depend on how far the periodontitis has advanced; treatment options for gum disease include:
- Planing and scaling
- Flap/pocket reduction surgery
- Soft tissue graft
- Bone graft
- Dental crowns
- Dental bridges
- Dental implants
Contact Our Raleigh Cosmetic Dentist
Our Raleigh dental crowns dentists are knowledgeable about helping patients improve their health by practicing good oral health and can advise patients on how to achieve the best and most healthy results. If you have gum disease or are worried about how gum disease can affect your overall health and lead to some serious health problems, contact a cosmetic dentist from our office. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you get on the road to better health!
