Gum Health
Healthy gums are the key to a healthier you.
Gum Disease Is the Most Common Reason For Tooth Loss
Many people assume tooth decay causes most tooth loss, but gum disease is usually to blame. Signs like bleeding gums during brushing or flossing and loose or shifting teeth can make the infection noticeable. Often, though, no symptoms appear until the disease advances. Treating the infection early greatly improves the chances of avoiding surgery. With timely care, alternative treatments can often control and even reverse the condition.
Gum Disease Can Mean More Problems Than Just Tooth Loss
Medical researchers have uncovered a significant connection between gum disease and serious health concerns such as stroke, diabetes, and heart conditions. When harmful bacteria build up in the gums, they can enter the bloodstream and circulate throughout the body, reaching vital organs. As a result, this bacterial spread can aggravate existing health problems or even contribute to the development of new diseases.
According to the American Dental Association, about 80% of American adults experience some stage of periodontal (gum) disease. Because of this widespread occurrence, dentists across the country view gum disease as both a national epidemic and a serious public health issue. In addition, growing evidence continues to link oral infections to potentially life-threatening systemic conditions, which highlights why prevention and early treatment are so important.
The American Academy of Periodontology explains that “studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.” This research emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy gums, not only for protecting your smile but also for supporting your overall wellbeing.
Good News in Treating Gum Disease
If treated in the less-severe stages, gum disease can be halted and even reversed with nonsurgical methods and improved hygiene. If the infection is advanced, gum surgery is often the only option.
Both approaches are typically covered by most dental insurances.
What Other Problems Result From Missing Teeth?
Medical research has discovered a startling link between gum disease and serious health conditions such as stroke, diabetes, and heart conditions. The bacteria in the gums also travels throughout the bloodstream, affecting vital organs, which can compound any pre-existing conditions or contibute to the onset of these diseases.
The American Dental Association believes that 80% of the adult American population has periodontal (gum) disease at some stage. Dentists consider this high percentage to be a nationwide epidemic, and with new evidence linking gum infections to life-threatening conditions, a much more serious matter.
The American Academy of Periodontology reports that "studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases."
Dental implants have proven to be the ideal replacement for missing teeth. They look completely natural and function just like real teeth. You will be pleased with your smile and regaining the ability to chew every type of food.