Boosting Overall Health by Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease (image source), also known as periodontal disease is an oral health problem which affects the gums (tissues holding your teeth in place).  It is an inflammation which is commonly due to poor oral hygiene habits.

Our mouths are full of bacteria. Along with food debris and other particles in the mouth, they form a sticky film of bacteria known as “plaque” on the surfaces of the teeth. Good brushing and flossing techniques can help to remove these plaques. When plaque is not removed, it can harden and form “tartar”. Only a professional clean at the dentist can remove tartar.

Importance of gum health

You may think that gum disease is confined only within the oral cavity. Truth to be told, studies have shown that gum disease and overall health are interrelated. Below are a few health conditions related to gum disease.

1. Gum disease and heart problems

Research has shown that long term gum disease may lead to the development of heart disease. It has been found that gum disease increases a person’s risk of heart disease by 20%. A common theory explains that gum disease with severe infection can cause bacteria from the mouth to enter the bloodstream. Eventually, they attach to the fatty deposits in the heart blood vessels. This will lead to narrowing of important arteries and may cause heart attacks.

2. Gum disease and stroke

Interestingly, some studies have also looked at the relationship between gum disease and stroke. They suggest that the more bacteria you have from gum disease, the thicker your arteries may be, leading to blood clot. Eventually, blood cannot flow to your brain, causing stroke. Moreover, it has been proposed that oral infection is a risk factor for stroke. People diagnosed with acute cerebrovascular ischemia were found more likely to have an oral infection compared to the control group.

3. Gum disease and diabetes

   

A diabetic person has higher amount of glucose (sugar) present in the blood and saliva in the mouth. High glucose levels in your saliva which may help harmful bacteria to grow. This situation will cause formation of plaque and eventually lead to gum problems. Similarly, gum disease can take longer to heal if you have diabetes. This is because diabetes weakens a person’s body resistance to infection.

Signs and symptoms of gum disease

These are some symptoms to look out for:

1. Red and swollen gums
2. Tender or bleeding gums which can occur upon brushing
3. Constant bad breath
4. Receding gums
5. Sensitive teeth
6. Loose teeth

Simple tips to keep your mouth healthy

• Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice a day, your gums may bleed if you have gum disease but gentle brushing with good technique will reduce bleeding incidence.
• Use mouthwash regularly – antiseptic or antibacterial mouthwash was proven to help with gum problems by controlling plaque.
• Get regular dental examinations – including dental X-rays. Dental X-rays helps to detect gum diseases at an earlier stage.
• Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco as this is a major risk factor for gum disease.
• Keep your blood glucose numbers as close to your target as possible if you have diabetes.

It is important to keep your mouth healthy as treating your oral health helps to improve your overall health. Everyone likes a clean and healthy mouth, and your body will thank you for that too.

References

1. Gum Disease. [Internet] [cited 2018 Dec 27] Available from:

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease/more-info

2. Diabetes, Gum Disease, and Other Dental Problems. [Internet] [cited 2018 Dec 27] Available from:

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/gum-disease-dental-problems

3. Does Gum Disease Increase Risk of Heart Disease? [Internet] [cited 2018 Dec 27] Available from:

https://www.healthline.com/health/gum-disease-and-heart-disease#prevention

4. Periodontal Disease and Heart Health. [Internet] [cited 2018 Dec 27] Available from:

https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/features/periodontal-disease-heart-health#2

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Tags

• Diabetes
• gum disease
• heart disease
• Oral Health