We all know that poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, causing serious implications for your oral health. But, did you know that gum disease can also increase your risk for heart disease and other cardiovascular complications? Researchers have found a direct link between gum disease and your heart. Thankfully, treatment for gum disease in Medina will protect both your mouth and your heart when visiting your Medina dentist for periodontal therapy.
Gum Disease and Your Heart
Gum disease occurs when an infection in the gum develops due to an accumulation of plaque and tarter around the gum line. When not removed, the bacteria in the plaque flourishes, causing the gums to become infected, inflamed, and irritated. While the early stages of gum disease are easily treatable, when left untreated the infection will spread, increasing the risk for tooth loss. Untreated gum disease causes more damage than just that of your oral health. The swelling and inflammation caused by gum disease is known to cause the arteries to harden, which is known as atherosclerosis. This causes the blood to work harder due to a decreased blood flow to the heart. As a result, your risk for heart attack and stroke increase as your heart struggles to pump blood.
In addition, the bacteria from gum disease can also cause complications. Your gums are full of blood vessels. When you have high amounts of bacteria in your mouth, these bacteria can enter the bloodstream. This will cause the bacteria to travel to other areas of your body, causing inflammation. If the bacteria travel to the heart, it will cause damage to the blood vessels in the heart.
Treatment for Gum Disease in Medina
To keep your heart and mouth healthy, you need to practice good oral hygiene with proper brushing, flossing, and regular visits to your dentist. Early gum disease, known as gingivitis, is believed to be the least harmful form of gum disease for your heart. With proper treatment, gingivitis can easily be treated, stopping the progression.
However, when left untreated, gingivitis will progress to periodontitis, which is not only harmful to your oral health, but your heart as well. If gum disease reaches the point of periodontitis, home care is no longer enough. You will need to visit a dentist in Medina for periodontal therapy. With periodontal therapy, we will treat the infection and work to keep bacteria levels to a minimum. In addition, we will work to repair any damage that has occurred and provide the preventative care needed to stop the progression of the infection.
Allan J. Milewski, DDS provides treatment for gum disease in Medina to give you a beautiful smile inside and out. Dr. Milewski will evaluate your oral health to formulate a customized treatment plan to reduce the implications of gum disease. Working together, we will help reverse the damages caused from the infection and prevent the spread of infection.
If you’re suffering from gum disease, call your Medina dentist today at (330) 591-8927 to schedule an appointment.