Your entire body is connected, which includes your oral and overall health. It might surprise you but there is actually a direct connection between your gums and your heart. That means that taking good care of your teeth and gums is important for keeping your heart healthy. Dr. López is dedicated to helping patients understand how gum health can impact more than just your smile.
What Is Gum Disease?
The first step is understanding what gum disease, or periodontal disease, actually is. This disease is a bacterial infection that occurs when plaque builds up along the gum line when your teeth aren’t properly cared for. It causes a break down between your gums and the underlying tissue, which in turn causes inflammation and infection. Gum disease breaks down the connective tissue leaving your body vulnerable for that bacteria to spread. As this bacteria spreads it can increase your chances for many different health risks that could cause long term or permanent damage.
How Your Gums And Heart Are Connected
It has been shown that people with gum disease are much more likely to suffer from heart disease or strokes, even when they are otherwise healthy. Gum disease can leave your body vulnerable, allowing bacteria to spread through your body by normal activities such as chewing or brushing. That bacteria can lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular issues. Overall health problems patients with periodontal disease face include:
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Coronary Heart Disease
- Strokes
- Infectious Endocarditis
- Preventing Gum Disease
Forming good habits will help maintain your oral and overall health, reducing risk for bigger health issues. Seeking treatment for gum disease before it can progress to a more advanced stage is an important part of preventing damage to your teeth, gums, and overall well-being. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day and using mouthwash daily are all good habits and preventative measures you can do to keep gum disease and its associated heart issues at bay. Making biannual trips to the dentist for a professional cleaning is also a vital part of keeping your gums and heart healthy. For some patients, your Spokane dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Contact Summit Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Today
If you are worried that you might have gum disease, making an appointment with Dr. López can help put your mind at ease. At Summit Family And Cosmetic Dentistry we can help treat your gum disease and keep it from impacting the rest of your overall health. Contact our Spokane office today for an appointment!