Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, isn’t just a concern for your mouth. It can have extensive effects on your overall health. We’ll delve into how gum disease impacts your overall health and why maintaining good oral hygiene is so crucial.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It starts as gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that can lead to tooth loss and other health complications.
How Common is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is surprisingly common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 47% of adults in the United States aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease. The prevalence increases with age, with almost 60% of adults aged 65 and older affected.
Health Impacts of Gum Disease
- Heart Disease: Research has shown a link between gum disease and heart disease6. The American Academy of Periodontology reports that people with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to also have heart disease.
- Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugar levels, and people with diabetes are more likely to develop infections, including gum disease. Conversely, severe gum disease can exacerbate diabetes symptoms.
- Respiratory Disease: Bacteria from gum disease can travel to your lungs, increasing the risk of respiratory infections like pneumonia.
- Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women with gum disease may be at a higher risk for preterm birth and low birth weight babies.
- Dementia: Studies have suggested a link between gum disease and an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline.
Preventing Gum Disease
Maintaining good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent gum disease. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and dental cleanings. Quitting smoking and managing underlying health conditions like diabetes can also help reduce your risk.
Conclusion
Gum disease is not just a dental issue; it’s a health concern that can affect your entire body. By taking steps to prevent and treat gum disease, you can protect your oral health and your overall well-being. If you have any concerns about your gum health, it’s important to consult with your dentist.
About Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi
Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi provides comprehensive dental care to the people of Kern County in a friendly and comfortable environment. Under the ownership of Dr. Jose David Sanchez, Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi focuses on the placement of dental implants, tooth restoration, IV sedation and dental anesthesia, making it among the most experienced dental offices in Tehachapi. Dr. Sanchez offers same day dental implant surgery for Kern County residents. He is a member of several prestigious dental organizations, including Fellow of Misch International Implant Institute, Fellow of International Congress of Oral Implantologists, Fellow of Global Dental Implant Academy, American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and California Dental Society of Anesthesiology. Dr. Sanchez continues to take hundreds of hours of continuing education courses yearly and stays up to date with the latest technology. This additional training, along with his 46 years of experience, makes Jose David Sanchez, D.D.S. one of the best dentists in Tehachapi.
For more information, contact Sedation and Implant Dentistry of Tehachapi at DentistTehachapi.com or call (661) 822-3727.
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