Why Lost Teeth HappenMany people assume that tooth loss is usually because of decay. It’s not. The primary cause is gum disease, which can be completely unnoticeable right up until you lose your teeth. An early symptom is bleeding gums when you brush or floss. Of more concern is loose or shifting teeth. If you’ve been advised that you need gum surgery, you may be glad to hear it’s possible to control gum disease with a variety of non-surgical methods.
Gum Disease Can Contribute to Stroke and Heart Disease
Medical research has led many to reach a startling conclusion: gum disease, stroke, and heart disease are linked. With heart disease often being fatal, it is clear that gum disease is a more serious matter than many people think. The American Dental Association estimates that 8 out of 10 Americans have periodontal (gum) disease. Any other affliction would be considered an epidemic! Most dentists think it is just that. They knew that label wouldn’t be applied to gum disease because “no one ever dies from it.” The worst is that you lose your teeth. Problematic, but certainly not life threatening. But that’s all changed.
The American Academy of Periodontology reports that “Studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.” Periodontal disease is characterized by bacterial infection of the gums. These bacteria can travel into the bloodstream – straight to the heart.
J.M. Arrue, DMD
1317 Milstead Avenue
Conyers, GA 30012
(770) 760-0036
DrArrue.com
No comments:
Post a Comment