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4 Dangers of Gum Disease and How You Can Reduce Your Risk

websitebuilder • October 19, 2017
person brushing his teeth

With approximately half of Americans adults diagnosed with gum disease, this oral health condition is a growing epidemic in the U.S. Early symptoms of gum disease include red and inflamed gums, bad breath and bleeding when you brush your teeth. If gum disease is caught early, it is easy to treat. However, if this disease progresses into the late stages, it can negatively affect your health.

Here are four dangers of gum disease.

Tooth Loss

If you don't seek treatment for gum disease promptly, you are in danger of losing one or more of your teeth. In the advanced stages of gum disease, the tissue and bone that support your teeth can deteriorate. When your teeth no longer have any support, they may become loose and fall out.

Missing teeth do not just affect your confidence. They also make it more difficult to speak properly and chew food. In addition, if you don't have teeth, the skin around your mouth can sag, giving you an older appearance.

Heart Disease

Believe it or not, gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease. The bacteria in your gum line can eventually make its way into your bloodstream and attach to your heart blood vessels. Unfortunately, this can lead to blood clots that cause heart attacks.

If you already have a heart condition, you are in danger of developing an infection of the heart's inner lining. The heart valves can get severely damaged by this infection.

Stroke

Stroke is another health condition you have to worry about if you have untreated gum disease. The bacteria in your gums can thicken your carotid arteries, preventing adequate blood flow to your brain. If your brain is not getting enough blood, you can suffer a stroke.

Strokes can lead to several devastating effects, such as memory loss, vision problems, speech problems and paralysis.

Premature Birth

If you have gum disease and are pregnant, you risk giving birth to your baby prematurely. The bacteria in your mouth may tell your immune system to tell your uterus to deliver the baby early. Babies who are born prematurely are more likely to be underweight and to have health problems.

Tips for Reducing Your Risk of Gum Disease

Gum disease can lead to some pretty serious health problems, so you should avoid it in the first place. Here are a few tips for reducing your risk of gum disease:
  • Include Vitamin C in your diet. Vitamin C can boost your immune system and reduce your risk of infections, including ones in your gums. Good sources of vitamin C include oranges, strawberries and kiwis.
  • Clean your tongue. Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, you still might not get rid of all the germs in your mouth. Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue throughout the day and spread to your gums. That is why you should use a toothbrush to remove food particles and plaque from your tongue every day.
  • Do not ignore signs of gum disease. If you notice that your gums are redder and more inflamed than usual, make an appointment to see your dentist. He or she can recommend the appropriate treatment. The sooner gum disease is detected, the easier it is to treat.
  • Stop smoking. When you smoke tobacco, you can weaken your immune system and make it more difficult for your body to fight infections. If you quit this habit, you can keep your gums in good shape and improve your overall health.
If you want to learn more about gum disease, contact Rabel Family Dental General Dentistry. We’ll be happy to help you understand ideal dental care practices.

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