Why it is important to Treat Periodontitis

Periodontal disease is a gum disease that affects the tissues and bone cavity that support your teeth.  This is caused by the bacteria that reside on teeth and within the gum line.  While there are many factors which could lead to periodontitis, the number one cause is the accumulation of plaque on teeth.  Plaque, the sticky substance that is formed on teeth houses the germs that attack the gum tissues as well as the bone cavity.  When left to fester, plaque hardens into tartar which is more difficult to remove by brushing alone.  With this protective layer, bacteria can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums, thus leading to dental health problems such receding gums and finally, loss of teeth.

But what does this have to do with your overall health problems?  Aside from the dangers of losing your teeth, complications of periodontal diseases are also linked to cardiovascular problems.  One theory suggests that the bacteria found on gums could enter the bloodstream, thus possibly forming clots which could eventually lead to a heart attack.  While this could only be a worst case scenario, still it pays to get periodontal disease treatment early on before it starts wreaking havoc to your teeth and gums.  Remember that the oral cavity is the gateway to your body and good dental health care can protect not only your teeth and gums but your whole well-being as well.

Apart from cardiovascular risks, periodontal disease can also aggravate existing medical conditions such as diabetes.  As diabetics often have slower healing process due to the decreased flow of oxygen and nutrients to body tissues and organs, gum infections could worsen and thus, lead to other health complications.  Apart from that, a jolt in the blood sugar levels could increase the sugar in the saliva which feeds the bacteria on teeth and gums.  This could worsen the existing gum condition and you may have more risks of losing your teeth as well as suffering from heart complications.

With all these said, it is best to stop periodontal disease right on its tracks before it brings major damage to your teeth and gums as well as your overall health.  A trip to dentist can help you determine the severity of your gum infection as well as the right periodontitis treatment.  In addition to the dentist’s prescription, maintaining good oral health habits such as brushing, flossing and gargling with an anti-bacterial mouthwash can keep the bacterial level in the mouth at bay and aid in the healing process of the gum infection.  It is also necessary to avoid activities such as smoking and drinking which could weaken the immune system as this could slow down the healing process.