If most people were asked to rate their level of oral health, the responses might be similarly favorable. Actually, it can be difficult to determine how healthy your mouth is without the help of a skilled dentist. When you see your smile reflected back at you, looking clean and bright and all in line, you can easily feel all is well. Still, on a very undetectable level, the early signs of infection may be showing; signs only your dentist can detect.
During routine dental examinations, using tools to aid in visualization, dentists are able to detect even the slightest pulling away of gum tissue from teeth. The early signs of disease, such as
bleeding gums, are also factored into treatment recommended by your
Kennesaw dentist. When we are able to detect the early signs of gum disease, we can devise a treatment plan of conservative procedures, managing the risk of future damage with deep cleanings and follow-up care.
Ideally, gum disease would be prevented through regular dental care. This progressive condition is taken very seriously by your dentist, who sees gum disease as a huge threat to beautiful smiles. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults. The loss of a permanent tooth or teeth has significant cosmetic and functional implications, and poses a real threat to oral health in general. The desire to keep your smile healthy and beautiful is enough reason to seek professional evaluation for gum disease. However, there are many more reasons to watch carefully for this condition.
Several research studies have been performed, with mounting evidence showing the far-reaching impact of gum disease. This oral condition has the potential to increase the risk, or worsen the severity of a number of alarming health conditions, including:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
- Sexual dysfunction in men
- Respiratory disease
- Diabetes
- Pre-term delivery and low birth weight
Researchers have yet to pinpoint the exact connection between gum disease and serious health conditions, although some studies point to actual bacteria, and others point to the inflammation that occurs with a chronic infectious condition like gum disease. The bacteria that live in the mouth and cause gum disease do not remain in the oral cavity. Mixing with food and saliva, bacteria can make their way into other areas of the body. Bacteria may enter into the bloodstream when gums become inflamed and bleed.
Why risk your beautiful smile, as well as your health? Gum disease is a preventable condition. Your dentist is committed to helping you, and your family, enjoy your healthiest smiles. Contact Thirty-two Dental for preventive dental care that counts.