Gum Disease – Can You Live a Normal Lifetime With Gum Disease?
Gum disease is caused by a build-up of plaque on teeth and along the gum line. It triggers the body’s immune system to irritate and swell up gum tissue around the teeth, which may cause them to bleed during brushing and flossing. If left untreated, inflammation of the gums can move to deeper tissue and bones that hold your teeth in place, causing tooth loss. The disease can also cause other health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Your dentist can identify the early stages of the disease, called gingivitis, when your gums bleed easily. Your gums may also be swollen, red or puffy. Inflammation from gingivitis can spread bacteria under the gum line to damage tissues and bone that support your teeth, leading to periodontitis.
Gum Disease: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention Tips
You can help prevent gum disease by brushing with a soft toothbrush and using floss or other tools recommended by your oral health professional to clean between teeth. You can also reduce the risk of gum disease by not smoking and eating a well-balanced diet that includes enough calcium to strengthen your teeth and jaw bones.
Early detection is important because the bacteria that cause gum disease can enter your bloodstream, affecting other parts of your body and increasing your risk for stroke, heart disease, osteoporosis, pneumonia, and certain cancers. The good news is that you can live a normal lifespan with gum disease, especially if it’s treated promptly and effectively.…