It is now estimated that over 80% of all adults have or will develop some level of Gum Disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gum tissues that support and surround the teeth. This disease is commonly referred to as Periodontal Disease. Gum Disease is a very serious disease, that is usually painless, results in bone loss and tooth loss. Some people are not even aware of the disease during the beginning stages.
Everyone knows that plaque is the colorless, sticky film that constantly forms on teeth. But most people do not realize that plaque is one of the main causes of periodontal disease. There are bacteria in plaque that releases toxins that irritate the gum tissues. This irritation causes the gums to become sensitive and bright pink or red. The early stage in periodontal disease is called gingivitis. Gingivitis is found in over 50% of all people, even though it can be reversed with simple regular dental cleanings and good home care. When plaque is not completely removed daily, it binds with the minerals found in saliva. The plaque then forms a tough, and jagged material called calculus or tartar. Once the tartar fastens to the tooth surface, only a professional dental cleaning can remove all of the harmful deposits. If this stage is not corrected, before long it can lead to a more severe condition called periodontitis.
Once the infection triggers a periodontal infection the bacterial irritation causes the teeth to separate from the gums, which causes these spaces to become infected. These now loose pockets allow for more bacteria to collect inside the pocket. The infection will begin to destroy and breakdown not only the gum tissue, but the bone that actually supports the teeth. If periodontitis is not treated, the teeth may become so infected that they bleed, become loose, abscess, or simply, fall out. Researchers are now linking periodontal disease and other health issues such as heart disease, stroke, heart attacks, bacterial pneumonia, Diabetes and low birth weights in babies or premature labors. And it is now a well-known fact that any tobacco use increases the risk for all forms of gum disease.
There is growing evidence that the presence of periodontal (gum) disease can be linked to the occurrence of coronary heart disease or coronary artery disease. When the gums are infected they frequently bleed. Recently, Researchers at the University on Minnesota recently discovered that bleeding gums, which are common in gum disease, provide an, “open doorway” for plaque bacteria to enter the bloodstream. The bacteria, Streptococcus Sanguis, can cause blood clots, which block arteries and trigger heart attacks. It is being estimated that fifty-percent of the plaque in an artery is compiled of the same plaque matrix that is found in dental plaque.
Findings are also revealing a relationship between regular dental exams and cleanings, and a reduced risk of stroke. Patients who attended a dental appointment at least once a year were four times less likely to have a history of stroke. What is the lesson to be learned? BRUSH, FLOSS, and visit us regularly! We know that good oral health can prevent more that just gum disease.
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Fresno, CA 93704
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