Many people are under the misconception that they will never experience gum disease and they are not aware gum disease has been known to cause diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes. Unbeknownst to them, these people may be at risk of developing such a disease, but hardly ever take the time to visit a dentist for to receive a check-up. Finding the time to do so may be difficult, especially for those who find themselves overloaded with work and children; however, by making dental hygiene a priority, people can avoid various oral diseases and thus improve their overall health.
What is gum disease (Periodontal disease)?
Gum Disease, also known as Periodontal Disease, is a silent disease – it’s slow, painless, and progressive. Most adults are unaware of this disease, making it harder to treat once the damage is done.
Some symptoms of this disease include bad breath, chronic bitter taste, loose teeth, and bleeding gums. Contrary to what most people believe, bleeding gums are not caused by thorough brushing but rather by doing the opposite.
Periodontal disease and other serious diseases
Aside from poor dental care, other diseases may cause periodontal disease.
Diabetes
Patients with diabetes are at higher risk for infection. Severe Periodontal Disease can increase blood sugar levels and make the damage harder to control for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Heart disease
Other recent studies have also shown that periodontal disease is linked to heart disease. The bacteria from the mouth can travel through the bloodstream and into the heart, which then attaches itself to fatty plaques in the artery. Consequently, the plaque that builds up over time will eventually lead to heart attacks.
Those with diabetes, heart problems, uremia, liver cirrhosis, anemia, and leukemia are more at risk than others.
Who is at a higher risk of getting gum disease?
Gum disease is an equal opportunity disease that can affect anyone regardless of age, race, sex, etc. However, the risks of contracting this oral disease are greater if there is a history of gum disease in the family and by smoking, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Also, many are not aware that the bacteria can be passed through saliva, which includes sharing drinks and kissing.
How to prevent gum disease
Avoiding this disease is simple. Our 7 Day Dental offices in Orange County provides our patients with the best of care. The only way to confirm a diagnosis of periodontal disease is to have your mouth thoroughly examined. We recommend having your teeth cleaned at least twice a year. During the checkups, we can take x-rays and measure the crevices in-between your teeth and gums.
Different therapy options available at 7 Day Dental
Periodontal therapy is necessary for treatment towards healthy gums to avoid any oral health problems in the future.
Our dentists in Orange County can guarantee the best course of care for the periodontal disease. This therapy is a non-surgical way of treating gum disease by performing root planning or “deep cleaning,” irrigating the gum pockets to flush out any debris and finally treating with localized antibiotics. These antibiotics are then placed directly into the gum pocket and released at specific times. Both Dr. Christine Chung and Dr. Chuck Le are firm believers in early treatment of this disease. Once treatment is done, the patient will be put on an estimated three or four-month cleaning schedule. This procedure will ensure that the plaque and tartar build-up is under control.
If you find yourself with one or more of the symptoms listed above, please visit your local dentist to locate the treatment that is most fit for you. Avoid losing your beautiful and healthy teeth: brush and floss thoroughly, visit your dentist at least two times a year and eat well-balanced meals. Your To-Do list may be filled with other responsibilities, but there is no doubt that your dental care belongs amongst your top priorities.
Dr. Chuck Le
7 Day Dental Owner
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