Gum Health and Its Impact on Overall Wellness

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Oral health is connected to systemic health in many ways. In particular, gum health impacts overall wellness in ways that you may not have realized. In fact, the condition of your gums offers insight into your overall health since the two are so intrinsically connected.

The Importance of Healthy Gums

As your dentist in Gilbert, AZ, can attest, your gums act as a kind of barrier against bacteria and infections. They protect the roots of teeth and the jawbone. When gums become unhealthy, they can’t function as they should, which compromises the health of the teeth and jawbone. In turn, a gateway opens, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream.

Link Between Gums and Systemic Health

When a patient develops periodontal disease, which is an advanced form of gum disease, a host of systemic health risks arise. These include:

Cardiovascular Disease.

Inflammation in the gums has been linked to the development of heart disease. This may be due to a spread of inflammation that causes arterial plaque build-up.

Respiratory Problems

When bad bacteria are in the oral cavity and gums, they can easily spread into the respiratory tract, where they can contribute to problems like asthma and even pneumonia.

Pregnancy Complications

There is evidence suggesting that periodontal disease can lead to premature birth and low birth weight in infants.

Diabetes

Patients with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease. In turn, gum disease can exacerbate diabetes in a vicious cycle.

As you can see, gum disease doesn’t just affect your teeth. During a dental exam, your dentist not only examines your teeth but also your gums for problems. Come in today for a dental exam in Gilbert, AZ, so your dentist can ensure your gums are healthy.

5 Signs of Deteriorating Gum Health

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YourGilbert, AZ dentist at Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry encourages you to have a dental exam at least once every six months. One of the important reasons for this is because of the way that gum disease develops. Gum disease doesn’t happen overnight or even over the course of a few weeks. It develops over several months and years. Signs include:

1. Red or Swollen Gums

Healthy gums are pink and firm. Red, swollen gums are one of the most evident signs when gum disease starts. The gums become inflamed due to the infection. At this stage, the gum disease can be halted and reversed with the help of your dentist.

2. Bleeding Gums

Are your gums bleeding when you brush or floss? This isn’t normal for healthy gums unless you’re using excessive force. Bleeding gums are a cause for concern and may indicate deteriorating gum health.

3. Receding Gums

The expression “long in the tooth” refers to receding gums. More of the tooth shows when gums recede, making it appear longer than normal. What’s actually happening is that the gums are pulling away from the tooth. Aside from tooth sensitivity, this eventually leads to tooth loss without professional dental intervention.

4. Pus Between Teeth and Gums

The presence of pus or a white, creamy secretion between the teeth and gums is a definite sign of gum infection. This usually occurs in more advanced stages of gum disease, whererestorative dentistry in Gilbert, AZ, may be needed.

5. Pain and/or Discomfort

Any consistent pain or discomfort in the gums is a warning sign. While not all gum diseases cause pain, paying attention to any persistent discomfort is important.

By visiting your dentist at least twice a year, your dentist may successfully detect and diagnose signs of gum disease. Contact us today to book your next dental exam.

What Causes Bleeding Gums?

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Bleeding gums is a common problem that many people experience. If you’ve ever had your gums bleed when brushing your teeth or eating, this could be a sign of a problem with your oral health. Understanding what this means and what you can do about it can help you take care of your teeth. Visiting yourdentist in Gilbert, AZ, is important. Here’s what you need to know.

What Causes Bleeding Gums? 

Bleeding gums can have many causes, some relating to oral health and others not. Your dentist can help you determine what’s causing your particular problem. Below are some of the common reasons that people experience bleeding gums:

  • Gingivitis or periodontal disease
  • Ill-fitting dental devices
  • Use of blood thinners or certain medications
  • Pregnancy
  • Brushing too hard or brushing with a hard-bristle toothbrush
  • Certain types of cancer and bleeding disorders

What Should You Do If Your Gums Bleed?

If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding when you’re brushing your teeth or at other times, talk to your dentist. Many people experience bleeding gums when they have gingivitis or periodontal disease. These conditions are caused by an infection in the mouth.

Your dentist will be able to help you by taking steps to clean your mouth and eliminate bacteria. Depending on the diagnosis, your dentist may need to thoroughly clean your teeth, prescribe antibiotics, or recommend more frequent teeth cleanings.

If the problem is not caused by gingivitis or periodontal disease, the dentist will take steps to help you learn the cause of your bleeding gums.

Make A Dental Appointment

At Kathy Jacobsen Contemporary Dentistry, we help patients like you to take better care of their teeth and gums. Call today to make an appointment for adental exam in Gilbert, AZ. We’re committed to helping you maintain healthy teeth.