Preventing the Number One Cause of Lost Teeth
If gums start to bleed while brushing or flossing, or any teeth become loose, it is important to have these symptoms checked. They are often a sign of infected gums, and this disease can be controlled and reversed during the early stages with nonsurgical methods. Regular checkups also help prevent the onset of periodontal disease, as sometimes these symptoms don’t occur when there is infection.
Gum Disease Can Contribute to Heart Disease and Even Stroke
Many patients may not be aware that periodontal disease can have an effect on more than just your teeth. Medical research has revealed that there is a link between bacterial infections of the gums and the onset or worsening of strokes, cardiovascular problems, and diabetes. It is clear that gum disease can result in more serious problems than losing your teeth. As the American Dental Association has determined that 8 out of 10 adults have infections in their gums, dentists are considering this to be an epidemic health risk.
As the bacteria from the infected gums travels throughout the bloodstream, it has the potential to affect your vital organs. The American Academy of Periodontology reports, “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.”
Now the Good News
We advise our patients to come into our office immediately with any of the symptoms of infected gums, as once the infection reaches an advanced stage the treatment will be surgery. In milder stages, the problem can be reversed with nonsurgical procedures and improved daily dental hygiene. With most dental insurance plans, both types of procedures are covered.
Is There a Problem with Missing Teeth?
Most teeth are lost because of gum disease and not accident or decay, as many assume. It is important to maintain a full set of teeth, as even one missing tooth can let the other teeth move or shift. This affects chewing, which lessens the amount of nutrients you absorb from your food. It may also become more difficult to chew, so softer, less nutritious foods will be consumed, which can result in an increase in weight. Speech can become slurred, resulting in embarrassment and less desire to socialize. Eventually, your face will take on a “sunken” look, making you appear much older than your age.
We offer you natural-looking implants that give you a full smile and complete functionality of teeth. We can replace one or many teeth with implants. Your confidence will be restored when your missing teeth are replaced.
Savannah Dental Solutions
Drs. Chad and Alexandra Schnabel
9A Medical Arts Center
Savannah, GA 31405
Phone: (912) 354-1366
Website: SavannahDentalSolutions.com
