Gum Disease And Its Impact On Your Oral And Body Health

Gum Disease Damages More Than Your Teeth
While most people are aware of the physical effects of Periodontal disease many do not know that there are systemic effects that stem from periodontal disease as well. Periodontal disease which is commonly referred to as gum disease is often referred to as the silent killer. Also, all of the systemic effects of gum disease are very serious and, in some cases, can be life threatening. Your oral health is connected to your overall health. Meaning that although gum disease is an oral health issue if it is left untreated it can spread to the rest of your body through your bloodstream causing it to turn into a systemic issue. 


Systemic Effects of Gum Disease
If gum disease is allowed to develop and spread untreated it will eventually begin to develop the rest of your body. Specifically, when left untreated the bacteria that exists within gum disease will get into the bloodstream and will cause inflammation throughout your body. This is harmful because when the cells and organs come into contact with this harmful bacteria and inflammation on a regular basis then they begin to work improperly. If your cells and your organs are not working properly than it makes it easier for you to develop many other health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or even heart disease because of the mouth-body connection.


How to Prevent Periodontal Disease From Affecting Your Health
The number one way to prevent gum disease from destroying your health and teeth is partake in gum disease treatment. With this treatment it will make you less susceptible to developing other systemic diseases as a result of your gum disease.  Review all of these options for gum disease treatment below:

Gum disease treatment includes:

  • Professional teeth cleanings
  • Scaling and root planing
  • Undergoing gum surgery
  • Bone and soft tissue grafts

Periodontal Disease
Although periodontal disease cannot be cured it can be managed effectively. Also, if gum disease is caught or detected in its early stages then with treatment it’s possible for the effects to be reversed. However, once gum disease has reached the advanced stage of periodontal disease treating it will not reverse the effects, but it will keep it from spreading into your bloodstream. This will in turn keep it from causing other systemic issues. Also, these systemic issues are more difficult to manage if you have gum disease. With this being said it’s best to take preventative measures when it comes to gum disease.  

Make An Appointment
If you are suffering from swollen gums or halitosis or any other sign of gum disease take precaution and make an appointment with your dentist. He can examine your teeth and gums and discuss treatment.