New findings are showing that people with gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) are almost twice as likely to have heart disease than those without it, according to the Harvard Heart Letter. The exact reason is not confirmed, but it is suspected to be a common link between both conditions causing inflammation and the body’s response to infection or injury.
Diabetes and Periodontal Disease
Separately, there is also a connection between Diabetes and Periodontal Disease. According to a study released by the American Diabetes Association in July 2008, men and women with just moderate Periodontal Disease had twice the risk of developing Type II Diabetes.
These two examples show the importance of taking care of your teeth and how not taking care of your teeth can potentially affect the rest of your body. Our team at Mint Hill Dentistry is here to assist you with keeping gum disease at a minimum and treating it as necessary.
Gum Disease Symptoms
Below are some signs of Gum Disease that you should keep an eye out for in your own mouth:
- Red or inflamed gums
- Bleeding after brushing or flossing
- Bad breath
- Plaque or tartar buildup along the gum line
How to Prevent Gum Disease
Your overall health and wellbeing are important to us. Our team at Mint Hill Dentistry is here to help you improve and maintain your dental health.
Here are ways you can prevent gum disease:
- Daily brushing and flossing (we recommend twice a day)
- Cleanings at our office twice a year (if you have excessive plaque, we may recommend more often)
- Scaling at the gum line at your regular appointments
Gum Disease Treatment
If you notice any of these symptoms above, please give us a call at Mint Hill Dentistry and we will work with you on a treatment specifically for you. As always, during your routine visits we will work with you to prevent periodontal disease.