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Could Gum Disease Lead to Other Health Problems?
Oct 15th, 2011
When you think about oral health and family dentistry, often you focus on your teeth. While a beautiful smile is the end goal, it’s important to consider the health and condition of your gums as well.
Recent research by the American Academy of Periodontology indicates that infections in the mouth such as gum disease can lead to health problems throughout your body. While it was previously assumed that bacteria was the main link between periodontal disease and other diseases, the latest studies show that inflammation may be the most important factor linking gum disease to other diseases.
Gum disease has been shown to be related to many chronic inflammatory conditions like heart disease, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s. Thus, treating inflammation may help treat not only gum disease but many other illnesses.
Especially if you have certain risk factors for gum disease, it’s important to schedule regular checkups that include a complete periodontal assessment. Not only because it’s important to diagnose and treat gum disease early, but also because the signs of inflammation may give you a head start on heading off other inflammatory conditions.
If it’s been a while since your last appointment, don’t hesitate. Schedule an appointment with our family dentistry office today.
Recent research by the American Academy of Periodontology indicates that infections in the mouth such as gum disease can lead to health problems throughout your body. While it was previously assumed that bacteria was the main link between periodontal disease and other diseases, the latest studies show that inflammation may be the most important factor linking gum disease to other diseases.
Gum disease has been shown to be related to many chronic inflammatory conditions like heart disease, diabetes and even Alzheimer’s. Thus, treating inflammation may help treat not only gum disease but many other illnesses.
Especially if you have certain risk factors for gum disease, it’s important to schedule regular checkups that include a complete periodontal assessment. Not only because it’s important to diagnose and treat gum disease early, but also because the signs of inflammation may give you a head start on heading off other inflammatory conditions.
If it’s been a while since your last appointment, don’t hesitate. Schedule an appointment with our family dentistry office today.
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