Preventative Dentistry. Are you concerned about the link between gum disease and heart disease? The two diseases are connected.
Over the last few years, physicians and dentists have gained insight into the relationship between gum infections and heart disease. Gum disease and heart disease are often seen in combination, due in large part to the impact of heart disease on the body.
More than 28 million Americans have been diagnosed with heart disease. In fact, in the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women, with about 25 percent of all yearly deaths being due to heart disease.
Heart disease is a chronic condition that becomes more likely with age. With appropriate care, both men and women can live full lives for many years after a diagnosis. However, they should be aware of possible complications – including certain dental issues.
One of the most important aspects of dental health is the health of your gums – the periodontal tissue. Throughout life, even as you go through two sets of teeth, your gums remain responsible for anchoring teeth and providing an adequate blood supply to them.
This is precisely where heart disease tends to complicate dental care.
Those with heart disease are more likely than others to need periodontal care. Heart disease tends to reduce blood circulation throughout the body, particularly in the extremities. This can make your gums more vulnerable to disease.
Common gum inflammation – called gingivitis – can progress quickly in those with heart disease and may develop into periodontitis, severe gum disease. Once gum disease appears, it can destroy tissue, requiring a graft. Without prompt treatment, the condition can even erode the jaw bone, leading to loose teeth.
After a heart disease diagnosis, it’s important to continue brushing and flossing regularly. Challenge yourself to do it more often. Removing food particles from between teeth reduces hard-to-reach plaque build-up and can help head off gum inflammation.
In addition to brushing, you can “massage” gums with a wet toothbrush once a day to encourage blood flow. A soft interdental pick can also be used. If you notice bleeding of the gums, looseness of teeth, or numbness in the gum tissue, see your dentist.
In particular, it’s important to consult your dentist right away if you notice discoloration of the gums. In gum disease, gums are frequently black but can be many other colors. If the problem is treated quickly, gum grafts are less likely to be needed to replace lost tissue.
For convenient, effective periodontal treatment from true dental experts, you have options right here in Lake Jackson. Contact All Smiles today.
“The service provided was excellent. The doctor was very gentle and made sure I was comfortable before performing the work. The staff was so nice. All Smiles Dentistry is the only place I will go for my dental work in Lake Jackson.”
– Bobby W.
