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The Periodontal and Systemic Connection: Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Your Heart will Thank You

The Periodontal and Systemic Connection: Keep Your Teeth Healthy and Your Heart will Thank You

By Peter G. Cooper, DDS

May 10, 2014

Category: Oral Health

Tags: gum disease Periodontal Health

Listen up! Your oral health is connected to a host of other health conditions that go beyond your mouth. Problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body, further proving the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene. Studies suggest that periodontitis is associated with diabetes, heart disease, and pneumonia, among other diseases.

Some diseases are associated with an increased risk of infections, such as diabetes, which increases the risk of gingival and periodontal inflammation and infections. When there is an underlying condition in play, your dentist may be able to draw an important connection between your oral health and your overall health.

By visiting our Pasadena periodontist, we can do more than leave you with a sparkling, healthy smile. Research suggests that the health of your mouth directly relates to the condition of your body as a whole. If your oral health is poor, then you may develop other health problems, including diabetes, asthma and heart disease. With an appointment at our office, we can provide you with proper periodontal disease treatment in Pasadena for a healthy smile.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other matter left behind from eating. Early warning signs include chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums, and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. In many cases, gum disease can go unnoticed for months until damage is severe. Once gum disease sets in, the toxins produced by the bacteria damage the teeth’s connective tissue and bone, eventually destroying them and leading to tooth loss.

As gum disease progresses, the bone tends to recede. In some cases, the root of your tooth can become exposed, causing tooth sensitivity. Since bone recession is not visible to the naked eye, left untreated it, may contribute to tooth loss. It is very important to visit your dentist for professional examinations and dental cleanings to effectively and properly identify gum disease in its earliest stages.

Since most people have regular oral examinations, their dentist may be the first to diagnose a health problem in its early stages. Visiting our periodontist in Pasadena helps in maintaining the health of your mouth and allows us to watch for unusual developments that may point to other health issues. Visit our office in Pasadena for periodontal disease treatment today.

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