Do your gums bleed after you brush or floss? Do they look red and puffy? Do you have constant bad breath? If so, you may have gum disease. It’s a common condition, but if left untreated, it can lead to other health problems down the road, including a stroke. Since May is National Stroke Awareness Month, your dentist is here to talk about how gum disease therapy in downtown Portland could help prevent you from a having a stroke.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection of the gums. When plaque builds up around the gumline, often due to poor oral hygiene, it can attract bacteria, which makes toxins that break down the gums, wearing down the bond between gums and teeth. The plaque spreads in this space, allowing bacteria to grow and wreak havoc on your teeth and gums.
What Are Some Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Many people don’t seek treatment for gum disease because they aren’t aware of its signs. Reach out to your dentist in downtown Portland if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Swollen or red gums
- Receding gums or loose teeth
- Persistent bad breath
How Can Gum Disease Affect My Overall Health?
Research has shown that people with gum disease are 20% more likely to get heart disease. Gum disease has also been linked to premature births or low birth weight, diabetes, and stroke. However, no definitive answer exists on exactly how these conditions are related.
A popular theory says that the exposed capillaries in your gums allow bacteria to more easily enter your bloodstream and cause all kinds of infections. They could eventually lead to your heart, allowing plaque to build up in your arteries.
How Is Gum Disease Related to Strokes?
Since May is National Stroke Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to discuss the connection between gum disease and stroke.
No definite causal relationship has been discovered, but the biggest common factor is inflammation. Gum disease results in inflammation of gum tissue, which can set off a chain reaction of inflammation throughout the body. This can eventually lead to the heart, which can make the arteries harden and lead to problems with blood flow. Therefore, although gum disease might not directly cause a stroke, it can increase risk.
How Can I Take Care of My Gums?
Preventing gum disease is about maintaining good oral hygiene. Doing these things can help:
- Visit your dentist every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning.
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes.
- Floss every day before bed.
- Avoid tobacco.
- Limit sugary foods.
Don’t let gum disease affect the rest of your body. If you think you may have it, contact your dentist right away. There are plenty of treatment options available, and if you follow these tips for taking care of your gums, you can prevent gum disease, stroke, and many other health conditions!
About the Author
Dr. Megan McInnis strives to make all of her patients at River Place Dental in Portland, OR as comfortable as possible. She screens for gum disease at every checkup and offers scaling and root planning therapy for those who have gum disease. If you are interested in treating or even just screening for gum disease, contact her or call (503)-761-1414.