Red and tender gums can be more than just annoying. They could be signs that gum disease is starting in your mouth. If this bacterial infection stayed in that one specific area of the obdy, then that would be trouble enough. However, research shows that gum disease is linked to a number of bodily health concerns including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Therefore, gum disease in DuPont needs immediate treatment for the sake of your oral and general health.
How Does Gum Disease Affect the Body?
Gum or periodontal disease happens when oral bacteria hiding in plaque begin to attack your gums and the connective tissue that supports your teeth. As the infection progresses, bacteria can access the bloodstream and migrate to other parts of the body, causing a number of different problems.
In the same way that bacterial plaque begins to harden on teeth and gums, it can also do so in blood vessels. Consequently, there may be blockages or restricted arteries that could increase the risk of heart attack or even a stroke if the blockage happens in the brain.
Gum Disease and Your Heart
Current research has shown that the connection between the condition of your gums and heart disease may be due to the elevated levels of inflammation that gum disease causes. Additionally, if you already have heart disease, gum troubles can aggravate certain heart conditions, such as infective endocarditis. Therefore, seeing a dentist in DuPont for gum disease treatment is critical.
Gum Disease and Diabetes
People with diabetes are less able to fend off infections because of elevated levels of blood glucose. If gum disease sets in, a diabetic’s immune system may not be able to keep up with the destructive effects of gum disease. Therefore, they run a greater risk of tooth loss because connective tissue and supporting bone could be destroyed with advanced gum disease.
Gum Disease and Cancer
Finally, there is also research showing that people with gum disease may be more likely to develop certain forms of cancer. Scientists have discovered that men with gum disease are:
- 30% more likely to develop blood cancers
- 49% more apt to develop kidney cancer
- 54%more likely to have pancreatic cancer
With so much evidence pointing to a link between health problems and gum issues in DuPont, seeing a dentist for regular dental checkups is essential. If you are due for a visit, call your dentist today.
Say Hello to Dupont Family Dentistry
At Dupont Family Dentistry, our team works hard to provide all of the services our patients need to have a healthy mouth and a healthy body. If you need to schedule an exam to have your gums and teeth checked, make an appointment todaywith your dentist in DuPont.