From Dental Health To Overall Health

Good oral health is important for a healthy body. Oral health is important for overall health. Oral health refers to the health of your gums, teeth, and mouth. Having a healthy mouth and teeth is important for your overall health and well-being. Here is how oral diseases like periodontal disease can affect your overall health.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissues. It is the leading cause of tooth loss in Americans and affects nearly 75 percent of the United States population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When bacteria build up on teeth, they can release toxins that cause inflammation in the gums, leading to gingivitis. If left untreated, these bacteria can destroy the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. As a result, teeth are lost and replaced by gaps.

The good news is that gum disease is preventable through regular brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist's office for exams and professional cleanings. With the proper at-home care, your teeth will be cavity-free. Additionally, since your gums keep the roots of your teeth in place, they are integral in maintaining the health and longevity of your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing regularly will keep plaque at bay and prevent the onset of periodontal disease.

How does gum disease affect your overall health?

Gum disease affects more than just your teeth and gums. It can cause tooth loss, jawbone deterioration, and an increased risk of other health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. That's why it's so crucial to seek treatment immediately when signs and symptoms of the condition are present. Some of the most common symptoms include inflamed gums that bleed easily or don't heal properly after brushing, loose teeth, bad breath that won't go away with brushing or mouthwash, and chronic bad breath even after you brush and floss regularly.

Treatment options for gum disease depend on the severity of the case and what's causing it. Typically, your dentist will recommend a special cleaning known as scaling and root planing, which involves removing plaque from above and below the gum line and smoothing out the root surfaces of your teeth to prevent future buildup. In more severe cases, they may also recommend antibiotics, which fight infection-causing bacteria in your mouth.

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