Periodontal or gum disease (periodontitis) has long been known as the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. However, the damage is not confined to the mouth. Gum disease has also been associated with an increased risk of serious degenerative diseases. Over the years, people with gum disease have been found to be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, pregnancy complications, and dementia.
Why are good oral health habits beneficial for your overall health?
Poor oral health is associated with an increased risk for several diseases and conditions in other parts of our body, such as:
Inflammation in the gums and bacteria may eventually lead to narrowing of important arteries, hence increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Poor oral health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. Oral health may be particularly important if you have artificial heart valves.
Tooth loss patterns are connected to coronary artery disease.
People with diabetes are at increased risk of developing gum disease, due to increased inflammation and greater risk of infections in general. The risk lowers if the diabetes condition is well-managed.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Regular visits to your dentist can help with early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease. Early signs of gum disease include the following signs and symptoms:
persistent bad breath
swollen, red gums
tender gums that bleed easily
pain with chewing
highly sensitive teeth
receding gums or sunken teeth
loose teeth or changes in bite
Just because you have one or several of these symptoms does not mean that you have gum disease. Your dentist will review the severity and duration of your symptoms, evaluate your oral condition and review your medical history before making a formal diagnosis.
Preventive Care is Key
Although oral health is not a key to disease prevention, it is important to take good care of your teeth and gums so that you can protect yourself from developing a positive connection between oral and systemic health and keep your smile healthy, clean, and beautiful throughout your life. Maintain these good oral habits:
Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice per day, after meals and before bedtime.
Floss between your teeth and gums before bedtime.
If you have bridges, implants, or wide spaces between your teeth, you may want to use interdental brushes (toothpick-like implements with tiny bristles at one end) to clear trapped food.
Refrain from smoking. People who smoke up to a half a pack of cigarettes per day are almost three times as likely as non-smokers to have periodontitis; those who smoke more than a pack and a half of cigarettes per day have almost six times the risk.
Eat more vegetables, high-fiber foods, low-sugar fruits, and vegetable-based proteins. A diet rich in vegetables and vegetable oils, fruits, legumes, nuts, and fatty fish not only provides all the essential nutrients, but it helps suppress inflammation. There is some evidence that people whose diets are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish, have a reduced risk of periodontal disease.
Maintain healthy levels of blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes.
See your dentist twice per year for regular cleanings and checkups.
Be mindful of early signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums and constant bad breath. Swollen bleeding gums that have pulled away from your teeth are the most dramatic signs of periodontal disease.
Article reviewed by Dr Edwin Heng
Comments