Gum Disease Is Affecting Your Overall Health

Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is the bare minimum to ward off many of the problems your teeth and gums experience and contribute to. Although you may be meticulous about your dental care, you need to see a dental professional twice a year to ensure your teeth and gums are in good health. Even those with good dental hygiene are subject to the hazards associated with gum disease. One thing that cannot be stressed enough is the importance of proper gum health because of its direct effect on overall health.

 Do Studies Link Gum Disease to Poor Health?

 There continues to be many health studies that point to a correlation between gum health and overall body health. Some studies say there is a direct link between certain body diseases and gum disease. Other studies say there is no link. It is difficult to tell for sure if diseases such as diabetes and heart disease increase gum disease or if gum disease is a risk factor for these diseases. However, it only benefits patients to care for their gums – that is the heart of the matter.

 How Does Gum Disease Affect Overall Wellness?

 Gum disease is an infection. Bacteria grows inside the mouth and is constantly attacking the teeth and gums. This causes the body’s immune system to respond, which leads to gum inflammation. Because the bacteria is in the mouth, it can easily travel to other parts of the body, including the blood stream. Bacteria in the blood stream could put patients at risk for heart disease and stroke.

 What Can You Do?

 There are many risk factors for stroke, heart disease, diabetes and other diseases affecting the body. You can lower your risk by taking good care of yourself, which means getting exercise, eating healthy foods, seeing a physician regularly and caring for your teeth. If you live in the San Diego, CA area, get started on the fight against gum disease by scheduling a visit with the Art of Dentistry today.