Are You at Risk for Gum Disease
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Transcript of Are You at Risk for Gum Disease
Not only can untreated gum disease cause you to
lose your teeth early, but it has also been listed
as a risk factor for serious conditions such as
premature childbirth and heart disease.
Fortunately, most cases of gum disease can be prevented
and treated with early detection and education.
Although severe cases of
gum disease have been
found in children, it is
important to know that it
is a progressive disease.
For this reason, a person’s
risk increases with age
and most adults over the
age of 65 have some form
of periodontitis.
Tobacco and alcohol both
reduce blood flow to the gums
and can cause dry mouth,
which allows plaque and tartar
to multiply.
Chronic use of these products
can also deplete a person’s
vitamin C levels and interfere
with healing of the gums.
Those who know that gum disease
is a part of their family history can
have genetic testing done to
determine their risk.
Prolonged stress is a risk factor for many chronic
illnesses and it can also contribute to gum disease.
This could be due to a person slacking off on their oral
hygiene routine due to a lack of motivation or time.
There are several commonly prescribed medications
that can contribute to the development of gum disease.
For example, oral contraceptives can create hormonal
fluctuations that affect the blood flow to the gums.
Therefore, it is important for you to keep your dentist
informed about any medications you currently take.
When you grind or clench your teeth, higher
than normal forces are applied to your gums
and their supporting ligaments.
Over time the periodontal tissues can be
destroyed thereby making them more
susceptible to infection.
If you have a systemic
disease that causes
inflammation within your
body, then it could also
lead to gum inflammation
and infection.
Talk to your dentist if you have
diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis
or heart disease so that they
can help you take measures to
prevent gum disease.
Fresh fruits and vegetables
also help to keep the gums
healthy by gently brushing
away plaque and encouraging
blood flow.
While good home care, such as regular brushing and
flossing, will help to prevent gum disease, it is also
important to talk to your dentist about your risk factors.
This way, you can partner with your dentist to develop a
multi-factor approach that will prevent gum disease
before it affects your health.
Their Chandler dentists will ask you questions,
examine you, and determine exactly what needs to be
done to get you back to normal.
Call today for an appointment.
Visit http://www.mychandlerdentists.com/