Our gums are often overlooked but play an integral part in our overall health. They're not only the foundations for our teeth but also a window into the health of our bodies. In this article, we're spotlighting gum disease, its impacts, prevention, and treatment methods.
The silent threat of gum disease
Gum disease is a silent threat. In its early stages, it often causes no pain or obvious symptoms, making it easy to overlook. Without regular dental visits, you may not even realize it’s developing. Gum disease — or periodontitis — starts as simple gum inflammation. Left untreated, it can destroy gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss.
Dentists check for gum disease by measuring the depth of your gum pockets. Readings over three to four millimeters may indicate a problem. Bleeding gums are another clear warning sign — yet many people ignore it when it should prompt an immediate dental visit.
Gum health and overall health: the surprising connection
Your mouth is an integral part of your body. It's not an isolated region, and any inflammation or infection in the mouth can travel throughout your body via your bloodstream.
Numerous studies have found associations between gum disease and other systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases. Common issues that increase your overall health risk include high blood pressure, smoking, excess weight, and diabetes; if you add gum disease to these other conditions, you could be significantly increasing your likelihood of a heart attack or stroke. By keeping your mouth healthy, you're taking a significant step towards maintaining your overall health.
How we treat gum disease at Lurie Dental: the dentist's role
The first step in treating gum disease is a thorough evaluation. Your dentist will carefully measure your gum pockets and look for signs of inflammation or bleeding. If the pockets are deeper than normal, they may recommend a treatment plan such as scaling and root planing.
This non-surgical procedure cleans the root surfaces, removing plaque and tartar from deep periodontal pockets while smoothing the tooth roots to eliminate bacterial toxins. After this initial treatment, your dentist may suggest checkups every three months to help prevent the disease from returning.
At home, your dentist might recommend tools like a water flosser. This device not only removes food particles but also flushes away bacteria from hard-to-reach areas, giving your gums extra protection.
Home remedies for gingivitis (gum disease)
Preventing gum disease primarily lies within your power. Good oral hygiene habits, including proper brushing and flossing, are your first line of defense against gum disease. Remember to brush your gums, not just your teeth. If your gums bleed when you brush, you may be tempted to avoid brushing them. While of course you should brush gently in any inflamed areas, bleeding is actually a sign that you need to clean your gums more, not less; and of course you should get in to see your dentist as soon as possible.
In addition, maintaining a balanced diet and regular dental visits for professional cleaning and examinations can also help prevent gum disease.
Gum disease is a widespread yet often overlooked health issue that can significantly affect our overall health. But armed with the right information and habits, we can effectively prevent and manage it. The secret to healthy gums lies in understanding their importance, keeping them clean, and seeking regular professional care. It's a journey towards oral and overall health, and every step counts.
We provide a thorough inspection for gum disease as part of our routine dental wellness exams. Schedule your wellness exam today and let us take care of you!