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Have Subtle Signs of Gum Disease?

167926376Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects 75 % of the population in some fashion. So, if you think you’ve got it- you are not alone. Since the advent of  cosmetic dentistry, many have been prompted to better maintain their oral health.    A bright, white, beautifully straightened smile offers many rewards. Smile makeovers have offered an opportunity for some people to feel that they can remain competitive in the job market.  People have also remarked that their new smile and improved oral health has an impact on social activities and intimacy. The benefits of oral health can be great.  In fact, if you are thinking about cosmetic dentistry, oral health is an important qualification in the candidacy for smile makeovers. Next, comes the challenge to oral health- periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease symptoms may be subtle at first and then progress, if left untreated. Gingivitis, the precursor, is signified by bleeding gums when brushing or flossing and bad breath. The symptoms progress to swollen, redden gums which may be followed by tooth separation, pus in between the teeth and gums, as well as, tooth loss. Periodontal disease first takes its form as gingivitis, then periodontitis and ultimately periodontal disease. It is a disease without a cure. Yet, gum disease may be managed with proper dental hygiene and  oral care.

174362143Where Do You Stand?
Have you been delayed in seeing your dentist? Do you brush at least two times a day for a total of four minutes? Do you floss at least once a day? Do you use mouthwash? Do you see your dentist every six months? If you’ve answered no to any of these questions, you may seriously be risking your oral and physical health. So, let’s do fast recap of an ideal oral hygiene routine.

 

 

 

  • Sudsy tooth brushing in a small circular motion, electronic tooth brush preferred,  twice a day for two minutes on each occasion.
  • Dental flossing at least once a day
  • Healthy Diet
  • No smoking
  • Mouth guards for tooth grinding
  • Remedies to balance hormonal changes
  • Freedom from autoimmune diseases
  • Medications that do not increase the risk for periodontal disease
  • Bio-Film Treatment may be in order, offered by select dentists certified in bio-film treatment.
  • Two visits to your dentist for professional dental cleanings and more often when prescribed. You might be surprised to learn that your dentist  have an armory of tools to keep your periodontal disease in check .

Now look at what you may avoid….

By being proactive with your oral hygiene, you can avoid life threatening risks linked to periodontal disease   After all, no one wants to become part of the following statistics. 

  • Over 60% increase risk for pancreatic cancer in men who had an experience with periodontal disease according to Harvard, University of San Juan and Dana Farber Cancer Institute  study results involving 50,000 men age 40 to 75 over 16 year time period.
  • Heart attack risk is equal to the increased risk of periodontal disease from smoking in people with severe periodontitis, according to a 2009 study by the Universities of Kiel, Dresden, Amsterdam and Bonn.
  • Stroke elevation in stroke incidents and deaths among people with periodontal disease, according to the 1st ever national health and nutrition examination and follow-up study entitled the 2000 Periodontal Disease and Risk of Cerebrovascular Disease Survey.
  • Diabetes risk is double for people with periodontal disease, according to the American Diabetic Association.

Indeed, there are many complications we desire to stay away from in order to enjoy quality of life. Knowing that a few simple steps can help manage gum disease signs so they don’t progress, is the best reward you can give to yourself.

It is important to recognize that all information contained on this website cannot be considered to be specific medical diagnosis, medical treatment, or medical advice. As always, you should consult with a physician regarding any medical condition.Your Health Access disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.