Did you know that February is Gum Disease Awareness Month and American Heart Month? It may seem like these two parts of your body are completely separate, but the truth is that the health of your gums can impact your heart in surprising ways. So what explains the link? And how can you tell if you have gum disease to begin with? Keep reading below for the answers to these questions. You’ll also find out how a dentist in Lincoln can help you stay healthier!
Signs and Symptoms of Gum Disease
Here are the most common warning signs of gum disease to keep an eye out for:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Tender or swollen gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Gum recession or teeth that appear longer than they once did
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a checkup to have your gums examined.
How Are Your Gums and Heart Linked?
Gum disease is quite common and affects an estimated 65 million Americans. One of the main contributing factors is plaque and tartar under the gumline, which are largely comprised of bacteria and lead to inflammation and infection in the gums. Over time, this progressively destroys the gums and underlying bone that support the teeth, which explains why gum disease is the #1 cause of tooth loss.
In addition, bacteria under your gumline easily enters your bloodstream and travels from head to toe. Once it reaches your heart, it causes inflammation and plaque to form in the arteries. One recent study found that gum disease increases the risk of heart disease by about 20%.
How Can a Dentist Improve Your Gum Health?
Seeing a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings is one of the best ways to prevent or manage gum disease. Since these visits include an annual gum exam, you’ll get the advantage of knowing right away if there are any problems (at the point when treatment is most effective). Here’s how a dentist may recommend treating each stage:
- Gingivitis – In many cases, gingivitis can be reversed with good oral hygiene habits at home and regular cleanings. In some cases, you may need to come in every 4 months instead of every 6.
- Later stages of gum disease – Once gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis, it can no longer be cured. But it can be managed to help your gums stay healthy over the long-term and reduce your risk of both tooth loss and heart disease. The first treatment is usually scaling and root planing (sometimes called a “deep cleaning”) to thoroughly remove the plaque, tartar and bacteria under your gumline and smooth the roots of your teeth. This procedure is usually done in 2 to 4 visits and includes numbing your gums for comfort.
- Maintenance – After their initial treatment with scaling and root planing, people with gum disease benefit greatly from ongoing cleanings every 3 to 4 months to maintain their progress.
Now that you have an understanding of how your gums and heart are connected, you’ll be better equipped to maintain your smile and overall well-being at the same time.
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding graduated from the University of Nebraska and has been a dentist in Lincoln for more than 20 years. He offers effective gum disease treatment, including scaling and root planing, to help his patients maintain their gum health and lower their risk of heart problems. If you’d like to know more about gum disease or have any other questions, he can be reached via his website.