Gum Health and Its Impact on Overall Wellness

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.