Gum Health – The Facts
New evidence
Over the last decade striking evidence has emerged about the links between our general (systemic) health and gum inflammation. Gum inflammation (bleeding gums, gum disease and periodontitis) is a factor in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Gum inflammation can also hasten the onset of diabetes and makes it harder to control and stabilise.
Like any inflammation in the body gum inflammation puts your heart health at risk and increases the risk of a stroke. One of the bacteria responsible for gum disease has been shown to cause heart problems and destroys neurons leading to memory loss. Prevention is aided by reducing the bacterial plaque on your teeth with good daily cleaning techniques and regular Hygienist appointments.
These alarming findings are now a major factor in people deciding to seek treatment and insisting on regular Hygienist visits to reduce gum inflammation. Rather than solely to benefit the life of their teeth.
You are the key to success
Your own care in thorough plaque control and your own commitment to professional check-ups and regular Hygienist visits are the first essential factors in prolonging the life of your teeth. This is very much like caring for your heart. People with heart disease can make a big impact on their life expectancy by maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and stopping smoking. These factors also affect the succ
Understanding gum disease
Gum disease is an infection. Evidence suggests it is probably not contagious. Because there is always bacteria in your mouth, there is no permanent cure for gum disease. This is why good plaque control is so important.
Gum disease is a silent disease. Patients are usually unaware of its progression.
If left untreated, gum disease is progressive and unpredictable. Regular checks by your Dentist and/or Gum Specialist are essential to maintain gum health, because it cannot be monitored by you. Our Hygienists can also check and detect gingivitis and periodontitis and advise you how to proceed.
Once you are susceptible to the destructive effects of plaque then you are always susceptible in the future. But, if your plaque control is of a very high standard and you have regular check-ups with both your Dentist and Gum Specialist, your gum health can be maintained and you will improve the life expectancy of your teeth.
Specialist treatment can stop the progress of gum disease and return your gums to good health. In some cases, specialist treatment can also regenerate lost bone & ligaments around teeth.
