Doctors now know that oral health is directly tied in many different ways to our over all health. The teeth and mouth can tell a doctor many things about what is going on in our bodies and point to several different health issues. Gum disease is a major health problem in the United States. According to the Surgeon General, almost 80% of people suffer from some degree of gum disease. Gum disease is actually a serious, ongoing bacterial infection of the gums. Bacteria will slowly destroy the soft tissue of the mouth and then can move onto to the harder gum tissue that holds our teeth in place. Currently, there is no cure for gum disease and only regular treatment will work to control it from worsening.
Bacteria from the mouth get into the gum tissues, and if proper teeth cleanings are not practiced, gingivitis can appear. The tissues become more swollen because of the toxins. The body releases chemicals as an immune response which can eventually destroy bone. Once diagnosed with gum disease, regular dental checkups and cleanings should be performed along with brushing and flossing at home. Using an oral irrigator helps to improve gum health, as well as a good electric toothbrush. The oral irrigator and toothbrush massages the gums and rinses out food particles from the gum line.
It’s now well known within the medical community that gum disease and cardiovascular disease are uniquely linked. Bacteria from inside the mouth have been found in artery plaques, the stuff that clogs the arteries. It’s believed that either the bacteria sticks on the plaque and contributes to the clogging or that somehow the swelling of the blood vessels in the mouth causes the arteries to swell. Remember the plaque in you bloodstream is not the same as the plaques dentists fight to keep off our teeth.
Pregnant women often suffer from gum disease. Because the body is going through hormonal changes, inflamed gums can be common. Pregnant women with gum disease are four times more likely to give birth pre term. The theory is that bacteria from the mouth exposed to the baby causes inflammation and a pre term delivery. It’s thought that gum disease also contributes to pre eclampsia in pregnant women.
Periodontal disease, one of the more severe forms of gum disease, can wreak havoc with diabetics. Diabetics have a high risk for gum disease, and once they have it, it is very difficult to manage because they have a more difficult time fighting infections. The ability to control blood sugar is lost because the body can become resistant to insulin.
Symptoms of gum disease include sore, painful or bleeding gums. Smokers gums become callused and may not bleed at all. Bad breath can be a sign as well. The best way to know for sure is to see a dentist regularly, eat healthy by avoiding sugars, and brush and floss every day. Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months and store it in a clean dry place. Another option is to try one of the oral rinses on the market with germ fighting abilities, although using these should never replace brushing!
Keeping your gums healthy protects the rest of the body from damage and creates a wonderful healthy smile
