Fort Worth Cosmetic Dentist Dangers of Gum Disease

The truth is that many people take for granted the regular task of brushing and flossing their teeth on a daily basis. However, this is something that is incredibly vital if you hope to avoid gum disease and any risks that it could cause to your health. Studies have shown that more than 75% of Americans have a form of gum disease, which has been linked to serious health problems and long-term dental issues.

Another name for gum disease is periodontal disease, and it is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar in the mouth. Some other habits that increase the risk for gum disease are smoking, medications, genetics, and even grinding the teeth. Gum disease includes several categories, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. The very first stage of gum disease is gingivitis, and it can be difficult to detect. If a dentist is able to detect it, it is actually reversible and can be treated. If the gingivitis is untreated, periodontitis will develop as another stage of gum disease. There are several levels of the disease periodontitis, and a common symptom of the condition is chronic gum inflammation. This is a symptom of where the tissue and bone will start to break down in the body due to infection in the mouth, and the overall result will be tooth and bone loss.

Other common symptoms associated with gum disease are bleeding, swollen, and red gums. Symptoms of gum disease may also include loose teeth, halitosis, tooth loss, tooth sensitivity, and abscessed teeth. Recent studies have shown that gum disease can also cause health conditions, including stroke and heart disease. If you have gingivitis, it significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke due to the high amounts of bacteria found in the infection of the mouth. As periodontitis develops, it also increases the risk for cardiovascular disease. Research has also proven that gum disease will spread inflammation to other areas of the body, which is why it increases the risk for heart disease and stroke. People with diabetes are also at risk for gum disease. This is mainly because of the high blood glucose in a diabetic, which is why diabetics need to take care of their oral health through a regular routine of brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease. It is also necessary for diabetics to have regular dental appointments to detect the early stages of gum disease.

It is important to understand that gum disease can be maintained and prevented through good habits in oral hygiene. That is precisely why it is so necessary to brush and floss a minimum of twice per day, which will prevent the development and spread of this disease. If you do have any of the gum disease symptoms mentioned, make an appointment with your dentist as quickly as possible. This is something simple that you can do to protect the health of your teeth from gum disease as well as the health of your body from infection.