Learn how to keep your family healthy and prevent this disease
The CDC reports that almost half of Americans age 30 and over have some form of gum disease. That’s a lot of people affected by something that is preventable. It’s also concerning because if gum disease is not properly treated, it can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory problems, diabetic complications, and other diseases. That’s why we created a PDF guide, “How gum disease affects overall health,” to provide you with all the research, prevention tools, and helpful resources you need to prevent and/or treat this disease.
Gum disease is an infection that damages the soft tissue inside the mouth and can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. This can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is usually the result of poor oral hygiene.
Here are some of the signs and symptoms of gum disease:
- Bright red or purplish gums
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Pus along the gum line
- Pain while chewing
- Receding gums
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should visit your dentist right away. If left untreated, the bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream through gum tissue and spread to other parts of your body.
Studies have shown that gum disease may:
- Increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. Researchers believe inflammation caused by gum disease is responsible for the connection.
- Make existing heart conditions worse
- Lead to pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses due to bacteria from gum disease being aspirated into the lungs
- Lead to diabetic complications
- Cause pregnancy complications including low birthrate and premature birth
Preventing gum disease starts at home. We recommend spending 7-10 minutes a day cleaning your teeth. Visit a dentist on a regular basis. Dentists can spot the signs of early gum disease. Learn more about gum disease when you download and print your copy of our helpful guide here.