The development of gum disease can increase the risk of general health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and more. It is helpful to understand this correlation and how to prevent gum disease and thus reduce the risk of poor overall health and the development of certain conditions.
Diabetes that is not adequately controlled can restrict blood flow. This can affect the gums and lead to gum and jawbone damage. Diabetes may also increase blood sugar levels, which can then increase the risk of developing gum disease. In addition, gum infections that can result from gum disease can have a negative impact on diabetes as well. Therefore, gum disease prevention and prompt treatment are important for patients that are diagnosed with diabetes.
Gum disease may also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. While studies are not conclusive about this correlation, there is a lot of research that supports the notion that gum disease can have a negative impact on heart health. One likely reason for this is that bacteria from infected gums could enter the bloodstream and affect the overall circulatory system, which could increase the risk of atherosclerosis and other heart-related conditions.
Other conditions that gum disease may increase the risk of include stroke, kidney disease, osteoporosis, asthma, and Alzheimer's disease. In fact, there is believed to be a possible link between gum disease and over 100 conditions. Of course, it is important to point out that these possible (and in some cases likely) correlations do not mean that gum disease can cause these other conditions. Instead, it suggests that gum disease could increase the likelihood of general health problems, especially with conditions that are related to the flow of blood.
The good news is that gum disease is preventable even for those who are at higher risk of developing the condition (e.g., people with diabetes). A periodontist can put together a gum disease treatment and prevention plan that may include a deep dental cleaning, regular periodontal cleanings, and an oral care routine at home.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Periodontist in Ventura, CA
Are you concerned about your risk of gum disease? Reach out to our dental office today by phone or message to schedule a visit. During your first visit, we can evaluate the status of your periodontal health, address any symptom concerns you have had recently, and put together a treatment and prevention plan to minimize the risk of gum disease and the consequent effect it could have on your overall health.
Request an appointment or call Brighton Specialty Dental Group at 805-644-5284 for an appointment in our Ventura office.
Periodontal disease affects millions of adults in the United States and necessitates a visit to the periodontist. Gum disease can cause tooth loss, which can lead to other health problems. Regardless of the condition's prevalence, it must be adequately treated because of its potential severity. It has no age or gender restrictions and can affect…
Plaque and tartar are two things that lead to the most common dental issues a periodontist can treat: tooth decay and gum disease. The teeth have an outer layer called the enamel that is the hardest part of the body. Designed to handle a lot of wear and tear, it protects a tooth's more delicate…
A periodontist’s view on gum disease can make you improve your oral care. Gum disease can spread to the surrounding teeth. It can also reach deep into the jawbone. This will lead to tooth loss. If you want to know more about how gum disease affects your jawbone and teeth, here are the details from…
All-on-4® blends the affordability of dentures with the stability of dental implants.
A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more…
A periodontist has the knowledge and training to prevent and diagnose periodontal disease. This oral…
Family dentists typically focus on preventive care to stop big problems while they are still…
The most effective way to battle gum disease is to brush and floss daily. These…
Learn how same-day denture repair services can help you. When your dentures chip, crack or…
