A Family Dentist Near Chicago on Gum Disease

Posted on October 12th, 2021

The majority of people take care of their teeth by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. However, regular dental exams and professional dental cleanings are also vital to maintaining your oral hygiene. This is important because keeping your teeth and gums clean is the single most effective way to prevent gum disease.

There is a synergistic relationship between your teeth and gums, as well as the rest of your body. This means that your oral health impacts the functioning of your body’s organ systems, beyond just your mouth. This also means that what occurs in other parts of your body can affect your teeth, as well.

Preventing gum disease is essential to your health because bacteria and inflammation that are associated with gum disease can lead to other problems in the body, such as heart disease- as well as significantly impact your dental health.

Outside of gum disease, poor oral hygiene may also lead to the following conditions:

• Endocarditis – Endocarditis is a life-threatening condition where the inner lining of the heart’s chambers and valves become inflamed due to bacteria which have travelled through the bloodstream from another area of the body. People with existing heart conditions are most at risk.
• Atherosclerosis – Atherosclerosis is when fats and other substances build up in and on artery walls, which can lead to a stroke. Evidence shows oral bacteria can be linked to this condition.
• Pregnancy Complications – Periodontitis has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight in infants. Gum disease can also lead to cavities, and studies have shown that children of mothers with untreated cavities or substantial tooth loss are three times as likely to have cavities compared to children of mothers without these conditions.
• Pneumonia – Bacteria in the mouth can enter the lungs when we breathe, leading to respiratory diseases or worsening them.

On the other side of things, conditions that affect other areas of the body, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, can cause oral health problems or make existing conditions worse. This is because the body’s ability to fight against infection is substantially affected by existing diseases and other conditions.

The Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis

Many people use gingivitis and periodontitis interchangeably, but there are a few significant differences between the two.

Gingivitis is considered early stage gum disease and can progress to periodontitis. Gingivitis is when excess plaque gathers on teeth, inflaming surrounding gum tissue. This typically causes minor symptoms, such as bleeding, pain, and swollen gums. Gingivitis may go unnoticed until diagnosed by a dentist.

Periodontitis is an irreversible, more advanced form of gum disease that involves bone loss. Gum tissue that gathers plaque and bacteria and goes untreated will become more irritated, more inflamed, and the gathered plaque will eventually become tartar.

Gum tissue will then start to recede (pull away from the teeth). Pockets filled with bacteria develop and cause infection. Symptoms include pain, soreness, tooth sensitivity, mouth sores, and eventually, loose teeth.
When symptoms of gingivitis start to show, it is important to schedule an exam with your periodontist near Chicago as soon as possible.

Preventative Periodontal Care

Preventive care is essential to protecting yourself from gum disease. Patients should always brush their teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, and floss once a day. It is also important not to skip checkups and cleanings with your dentist, especially if and when you notice any changes in your oral or general health.

A Periodontist in River North

Even when we take care of our teeth and keep up with our oral hygiene, sometimes gingivitis can still develop. According to the CDC, over 47% of adults aged 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease. It is important to seek treatment if you believe you may have gingivitis, even if symptoms are minor.

If you have been searching online for “periodontal treatment near me,” look no further than Windy City Family Dental. Our dental office provides periodontal treatment in Chicago for patients so they can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Contact us online to schedule an appointment, or by calling (312) 236-8065 today.

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