Plaque on the teeth is unsightly as well as dangerous to your oral health and can wreak havoc in other areas of your body’s system. A dentist might be the first to encounter the symptoms leading to conditions you are not aware of, just by examining the status of your gums.
There are different degrees of periodontal or gum disease.
Gingivitis - This is the early stage, at this point, the gums show signs of redness and inflammation. It is the result of sticky particles of food with bacteria forming a film on your teeth and around the base of the gum. Usually there is no sensation of pain felt at this time.
Mild Periodontitis - As the disease progresses, you will find that your gums will start to bleed when you brush them and they feel slightly tender to the touch. Your breath will smell unpleasant, even after brushing because of developing corruption surrounding the gums.
Pyorrhea - If left untreated, this disease will continue to advance, until your teeth becoming unstable through erosion, while pulling away from the gums, exposing pus pockets and threatening the support of the bone structure. Without major dental treatment, individuals are in danger of losing a tooth or two.
Some health issues connected to gum disease are:
Cardiovascular Maladies - Many studies are comparing the association between cardiovascular disease and oral hygiene. Observations have been made concerning individuals with periodontal disease, who also seem to have an increase in strokes and heart attacks. In fact, there is a direct correlation between oral pathogens and cardiopathy.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) - Several reports indicate if bacteria existing in the pockets of infected gums, travels through the bloodstream or is inhaled into the lungs, it will tend to spread infection. This can increase the risk of microorganisms’ transmission to the respiratory tract, causing chronic COPD.
Rheumatoid Arthritis - Periodontal pathogens have been recognized as a catalyst for triggering the antibodies that attack the tissues of the body and produce an inflammatory reaction in the joints, which is one of the primary symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
This list addresses just a few of the troubles gum disease can create.
As you can see, it is crucial to plan regularly scheduled dental appointments for prevention of periodontal disease. It will help you maintain a beauty smile, along with a healthy body.
Whether you are suffering from gum disease or have other dental requirements, Lowry Dental offers a wide range of oral health services. Feel free to contact us today for a consultation.