Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth and gums, as well as the bone that surrounds the teeth. Plaque, a sticky film of food and bacteria, is the most common element causing gum disease and bone loss.
Unfortunately, periodontal-related problems are often discovered after they have persisted for an extended period of time. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss in the United States today. Proper oral hygiene, daily dental care and regular dental checkups will minimize the risk of gum disease. Gum disease ranges from mild (gingivitis) to moderate (periodintitis) to the severe (advanced periodontitis).
Common problems associated with periodontal disease:
- “Long” teeth (receding gum lines expose the root portions of your teeth)
- Discolored or deteriorating tooth structure
- Gum depressions (holes in between the teeth in the gum tissue)
- Infected gum line (discoloration or inflammation of the gum tissue)
- Tooth loss or tooth movement
The effects of gum disease can be damaging not only to your dental health, but to your overall health as well. New research has shown a connection between gum disease and serious diseases such as Heart Disease, Diabetes, Strokes, Pancreatic Cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease.
The Link Between Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease
Research shows that people with periodontal disease are twice as likely to have heart disease as those without periodontal disease.
Many researchers believe that the mouth is the portal for the bacteria to invade the body. Bacteria that begin in periodontal pockets can not only cause inflammation and damage to your gums, but it can grow and enter the blood stream spreading throughout your body. It can affect your heart by attaching to plaque in the coronary arteries, thus contributing to clot formation. Heart disease is characterized by the thickening of the walls of the coronary arteries due to the accumulation of plaque. Blood clots can obstruct blood flow and decrease the amount of oxygen the heart receives, which can lead to a heart attack.
How You Can Reduce Your Risk
Regular dental exams can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. So do your heart a favor. Brush, floss and visit us twice a year for a checkup and cleaning!