Gum Health
Healthy gums are the key to a healthier you.
Gum Disease Is the Most Common Reason For Tooth Loss
Although it is commonly assumed that decay is the reason for most tooth loss, it is in fact gum disease. Sometimes symptoms (such as gums that bleed when brushing/flossing or loose/shifting teeth) make the infection evident. In many cases, there are no symptoms until the infection reaches an advanced stage. The earlier the infection is treated, the more likely it is that surgery can be avoided. Alternative treatments can often successfully control and even reverse the problem.
Gum Disease Can Mean More Problems Than Just Tooth Loss
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. This can compound pre-existing conditions or contribute 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 serious issue, as new evidence links gum infections to life-threatening conditions.
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."
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.