Albertville, AL
The mouth is considered the window to a person’s overall health and well-being. Studies show that issues with oral health can and do affect other parts of the body; for instance, poor oral health — particularly untreated cavities — can have a significant impact on a person’s cardiovascular health. How? Cavities and gum disease result from bacterial infections in the teeth. When left untreated, the bacteria can enter a person’s bloodstream and cause systemic inflammation, which can eventually cause heart attacks and strokes along with a whole host of other health problems like memory loss due to Alzheimer’s, respiratory infections and complications with diabetes.
At Wall Street Dentistry, we know it’s important that our patients understand the connection between dental care and overall health. Our Albertville family dentist is sharing today how dental treatments impact your well-being and how you can make sure you’re caring for your teeth and gums to maintain the health of your entire body.
How do oral bacteria travel to organs?
The short answer: through the bloodstream. Gum disease — also known as gingivitis in its earliest stages and periodontal disease as it advances — is a common oral health issue caused by a bacterial infection of the gums and tissues supporting the teeth.
Let’s take a quick look at how cavities and gum disease develop and can eventually lead to health complications:
Stage 1 — Our mouths have natural bacteria in them — some are beneficial, and some are harmful. When we don’t properly care for our oral health and we leave sugars (and starches that turn into sugar) and tiny food particles in and between our teeth, the harmful bacteria feed off them, growing and multiplying.
Stage 2 — The bacteria produce acids that combine with the food particles and saliva to create a sticky film on the teeth called plaque.
Stage 3 — If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar (calculus). Plaque and tartar buildup lead to cavities and irritate and inflame the gums, causing gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing.
Stage 4 — If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. In this more severe stage, the inner layer of the gum and bone recede from the teeth and form pockets at the gum line. These pockets collect debris and can become infected. The body’s immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line.
Stage 5 — Periodontal disease, if ignored, turns into advanced periodontitis, when the infection begins destroying the tissues and bone that support the teeth. This often results in tooth loss.
When the gums start shrinking away from the teeth, bacteria begins to erode the jawbone and can enter the bloodstream. Once there, the bacteria are carried throughout the body, potentially affecting other organs.
How to protect your health by taking care of your teeth and gums
Our Gadsden family dentist, along with most all other dentists, recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once daily and going to the dentist twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings. This will drastically reduce your risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
What if I already have gum disease?
Gum disease is very common. In fact, most all American adults will have it in some form at some point in their lives. If you notice that your gums are irritated, red, swollen and/or seem to bleed easily (if you see pink in your toothpaste when brushing), contact our dentist in Albertville as quickly as possible.
In addition to maintaining your oral health, be sure to enjoy a well-balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates. Move your body regularly and get enough sleep to maintain a healthy weight and strong cardiovascular health.
Protect your health with dental care in Albertville, Alabama
At Wall Street Dentistry, we know that your oral health is part of your overall health and well-being. Your health matters to us. We want our patients to live healthy lifestyles, including coming in to see us twice a year for cleanings. If it’s time for your biannual checkup, or if you’re curious if you may have gum disease, call us at (256) 400-2783, or reach out to us online today.
