Connection between Gum Disease and Overall Health

Dr. George Sanchez explains that the connection comes down to inflammation as your body tries to protect itself when bacteria come into play.

Swelling is a sign that something isn’t right. When you swell, it means your body is trying to combat the infection. Unfortunately, bad bacteria in the form of gum disease usually overtake the good stuff. When that happens you will have plaque and tartar invading your gum line.

Gum Disease is the Culprit

There are two types of gum disease, gingivitis and periodontal disease. Gingivitis, the more mild form of gum disease, is curable and with proper oral hygiene habits, can remain a thing of the past. However, periodontitis is not curable. While it can be controlled, it cannot be cured.

Signs of Gum Disease

• Puffy and/or swollen gums
• Bright red, purple, or dusky red gums
• Gums are tender to the touch
• Toothbrush is slightly pink after you brush
• Bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth
• Bad breath
• Pus between gums and teeth
• Pockets between teeth and the gumline

The Oral and Overall Health Connection

Your dentist in Delray Beach explains that bad bacteria enter the bloodstream via those pockets mentioned above. Bacteria clots blood and sticks to the walls of your vessels and arteries. In plain English, bad oral hygiene could lead to heart disease or stroke.

Studies show that people with periodontal disease have a higher risk of congestive heart failure and heart attack. People with poor oral hygiene habits are also in the high-risk category when it comes to systemic disease and Alzheimer’s disease. One recent study even discovered a connection between periodontal disease and kidney and liver problems.

Keeping Your Body Healthy

The best way to protect overall health is to practice good oral hygiene habits. Your Delray Beach family dentist urges you to brush twice and floss once each day. Don’t forget to brush your tongue and swap out your toothbrush when it starts to fray. This is usually every two or three months. It’s also important that you use a soft bristled brush and resist the temptation to brush too hard. Brushing too hard causes gum damage.

Dr. George also stresses the importance of a good diet and recommends eating lots of vitamins and minerals. It’s also vital that you load up on calcium. Remember, calcium builds strong bones AND strong teeth.

Schedule regular dental checkups, cleanings, and comprehensive dental examinations for optimum overall and oral health.

Have You Seen Your Dentist Lately?

If you haven’t seen Dr. George lately, call and schedule an appointment. Having healthy teeth and gums is the best way to keep overall health in check. Call or text for an appointment today.

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