While taking good care of teeth and gums is widely known to keep a smile at its best, many overlook the important connections between oral health and overall well-being.
Dr. Carothers helps patients understand the important correlation between dental care and their systemic health. While infection may start in your teeth, the bacteria causing it can spread throughout the rest of your body. By knowing what to look out for, you can take charge of your periodontal health and prevent the problems caused by advanced gum disease.
Did You Know Caring for Your Gums Means Caring for Your Heart?
Brushing your teeth, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash preserves your oral health by preventing the development of gum disease.
Some consider bleeding gums to be a normal consequence of brushing and may not recognize this as a sign of gingivitis. Catching this condition in its earliest form makes it possible to reverse the damage by taking actions as simple as implementing a more effective and consistent oral care routine. If you experience continued sensitivity in your gums or notice that this soft tissue looks inflamed after brushing your teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Carothers. He provides treatment that halts the progression of gum disease as well as tips on how you can improve hygiene and stave off future issues.
If left untreated, gingivitis develops into periodontitis, the advanced and more potentially destructive form of gum disease. It is at this stage when infection may enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk for cardiovascular complications.
Do You Know Why You Should Take Care of Your Smile?
Having dental complications addressed promptly often prevents the onset of systemic concerns. Bacteria can travel through the diseased gums to the brain using connecting nerve channels, increasing susceptibility to Alzheimer’s disease. If the infection travels to the lungs, respiratory problems such as pneumonia have a higher chance of occurring, as well.
Patients with diabetes have a harder time keeping blood sugar levels under control when periodontal disease is present. This relationship tends to work both ways, as diabetes makes it more difficult for dentists to reduce inflammation and effectively treat gum disease.
Gum care is essential for expectant mothers. There is a greater chance of developing periodontal concerns during pregnancy. Not only this, but there is evidence that women with gum disease are more likely to have children with low birth weights.
Ready to Learn More? Contact Us Today!
For more information on preventing gum disease development, call our office today! We are conveniently located in Portland and happy to help any way that we can. Dr. Carothers enjoys educating patients on how keeping their smiles healthy positively impacts their overall well-being.