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Gum disease isn’t something that sounds all that serious, but it has more control over your body as a whole than most people realize. It starts quietly enough. A little bleeding when you brush, gums that are inflamed, and, if you don’t do something about it, it goes far beyond halitosis and dental problems. As it turns out, your mouth has a lot more to communicate to your body than we originally thought.
How Gum Disease Can Harm More Than Your Smile?
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, really is a gum infection that’s chronic in nature. And when those yucky bacteria get rooted, they’re able to make their way through your bloodstream and interfere with other parts of your body.
Heart Health Gets Hit
Studies show that gum disease has a close link with heart disease. Bacteria that infect infected gums could make their way into your bloodstream, possibly leading to clogged arteries, heart valve damage, or even causing strokes and heart attacks. Not the sort of thing you’d expect to happen when you miss a few brushing sessions, right?
Breathing Becomes Difficult
Your mouth bacteria can also travel to your lungs—if you already have underlying conditions like asthma or COPD, that is. This can lead to respiratory infections like bronchitis or complicated lung conditions that already exist
Pregnancy and Gum Health
You’re not the only one who might develop gum disease when you’re pregnant; your child could get it, too. Gum inflammation has also been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Keeping your gums healthy during pregnancy is essential.
Also Read: How Dental Cleanings Reduce the Risk of Tooth Decay?
A Possible Link to Alzheimer’s
Long-term inflammation as a result of gum disease might even lead to mental deterioration. Studies show that the condition of your gums could be associated with an increased chance of Alzheimer’s disease. Not entirely proven, but it is enough to make you think twice about not flossing.
So, What Can You Do
The better news that gum disease can be prevented as well as treated. Brushing and flossing on a regular basis, along with twice-yearly dentist appointments, work wonders. If gum disease has already set in, scaling and root planing treatments will remove the infection. In extreme cases, surgery might be required to bring the gums back to health.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your gums does more than make your smile shine. With Palm Tree Dental, you’re investing in a healthier, happier future for your whole body.