The gums act as support for teeth and help ensure that the tooth roots are healthy. Losing gum tissue can also mean losing permanent teeth, which is why it’s important to look for signs of gum disease, including bleeding, red, and irritated gum tissue. But did you know that there are medical conditions that impact your gum health? We will review some of the most common medical conditions connected to gum disease and how to treat gum disease symptoms in Broomall, PA.
Medical Problems Connected to Gum Disease
If you have a medical condition like diabetes or a weak immune system, you can be more prone to developing a bacterial infection. There are multiple common medical conditions that can cause problems like gum disease:
Diabetes
Patients with diabetes are more prone to gum disease because they have higher levels of glucose in their saliva. Harmful bacteria are attracted to sugars and starches in the mouth. Over time, this harmful bacteria can wear down the enamel and gum tissue, creating problems like cavities and gum disease.
Osteoporosis
Fragile bones and low bone mass are common indicators of osteoporosis. Because teeth are bones, they can be impacted by osteoporosis. Patients with osteoporosis are prone to teeth breaking, loosened teeth, and even gum recession. Osteoporosis can lead to bone loss in the jaw bone, meaning bacteria can enter into the teeth and gums, often leading to a gum infection.
Heart Problems
Heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease are linked to gum disease. Inflammation caused by gum disease can affect the heart because harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream. Once bacteria enter the bloodstream, they can create blood clots and attach to the arteries.
Respiratory Disease
Gum disease can worsen respiratory problems like bronchitis, emphysema, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Patients with chronic respiratory problems can also have poor immune health. Low immunity can increase patients’ risks of developing bacterial infections like gum disease.
Treat Gum Disease in Broomall, PA
Gum disease begins as gingivitis or gum inflammation. Patients with gingivitis often experience bleeding gums when brushing their teeth. Gingivitis is easily reversible with flossing, brushing, and regular professional dental cleanings.
Scaling and root planing can be effective for patients who begin to notice increased gum problems and bacterial build-up. These deep-cleaning treatments remove plaque, a sticky bacterial film, and tartar, hardened plaque. Scaling removes buildup on and beneath the gum line, while root planing removes bacteria from the tooth roots to ensure they are attached to the gums.
Do you think you may have gum problems because of a medical condition? Call Williamsburg Dental at (610) 347-8302 or schedule a dental appointment with us online.
If you have any questions about your oral health in relation to your medical condition, please let us know. We can give you advice to ensure that you have a good oral hygiene routine to lessen the chance of developing gum disease.