Let’s be honest; teeth often steal the show. They dominate the big screen, billboards, and front pages of magazines. There’s just something irresistible about a brilliant smile! Because the pearly whites tend to capture everyone’s attention—including yours—the gums sometimes take a backseat.
While they may not be as flashy as teeth, gums are extremely important, and their health is directly related to the wellbeing of not only your teeth but of your entire body. As such, it’s important to give them a bit more attention, especially when it comes to keeping them healthy!
Why is gum care so important, and how can gum disease affect your overall health? We’re glad you asked! Read on to find out.
Gum Disease
To understand the impact of gum disease on the body, as well as how to best avoid it, it is important to know what exactly gum disease is. There are two primary types of gum disease—gingivitis and periodontitis—each with its own set of symptoms and challenges.
Gingivitis is often accompanied by inflammation and a propensity to bleed. It is considered the earliest stage of gum disease and is typically easy to correct if caught early.
Periodontitis, on the other hand, is much more serious. This advanced form of gum disease can cause tremendous damage to the gums, bones, and even the ligaments that support the teeth.
How Gum Disease Can Impact Overall Health
The state of your gums affects your teeth and oral health directly, but the impact of gum disease is not limited to the mouth. In fact, it has been linked to health issues of all kinds, making it exceptionally important to take any gum-related concerns you may have seriously.
Gum disease has been linked to numerous problems, including dementia, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, premature birth, and more. These connections seem to be caused by a variety of factors, including the buildup of bacteria and high levels of inflammation.
In other words, it’s not just your oral health at stake when gum disease strikes—it’s your overall wellbeing.
Recognizing Gum Disease
Because gum disease is serious in its own right and in regard to the overall state of your body, it’s vital that you recognize the signs and address any issues quickly. While it’s best to consult your dentist with any concerns you may have, the following symptoms.
Gums that are red, swollen, or bleeding may be a sign of gum disease. Your teeth can also be a warning sign, especially if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, abscesses, loose teeth, or tooth loss.
Preventing Gum Disease
Thankfully, preventing gum disease is usually straightforward. Foundational oral hygiene habits are integral to maintaining healthy gums, so be sure to brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
You can also cut unhealthy habits out, including smoking and diets high in sugars.
If you are concerned that you may have unhealthy gums or simply want to set yourself up for oral and overall health success, get in touch with your dentist. They can evaluate the current health of your gums, provide recommendations on how to improve, and ensure that your dental visits are schedules at proper intervals.
Remember, caring for your gums is caring for your health, so be sure to stay proactive when it comes to your gum health!