Gum Disease: A Common Condition with Serious Consequences

More than 75% of Americans have some form of periodontal disease (also called gum disease). Are you one of them? Maybe you’re not sure. Find out how to recognize the symptoms and why this condition should not be treated lightly.

Do I Have Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease is one of the most common problems diagnosed in the dentist office. It is easily identified during a routine periodontal examination by excess oral inflammation and a certain type of bleeding.

Did You Know? The symptoms of periodontal disease may go completely unnoticed by patients until the advanced stages.

Here are some things to watch for:

• Bleeding gums when brushing and flossing
• Gumline retracting away from the teeth
• Loosening or separation of permanent teeth
• Bitter taste or unexplained persistent bad breath

What Causes Gum Disease?

Active gum disease is actually an infection caused by certain bacteria, yeasts, and viruses that live around the teeth.

Everyone has a personalized reaction to oral bacteria based on their genetics, and lifestyle factors (such as smoking and chewing tobacco).

If Gum Disease is Left Untreated

If periodontal disease is not stabilized and allowed to persist it can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss.

But there is an even more serious concern.

When your gums bleed, the bacteria can enter your bloodstream and spread to your entire body. The result is inflammation, damage to other body functions, and potential disease.

The more attacks your body defends and the longer it must fight, the more often it leads to diseases like:

• cardiovascular disease
• stroke risk
• Alzheimer’s disease
• dementia
• diabetes
• and many more

An Issaquah Family Dentist Who Understands Oral Systemic Health

Your Issaquah family dentist, Dr. Vanama has a keen awareness of how gum disease can affect your overall health. As a Wellness Dentistry Network and Kois member, Dr. Vanama performs a very thorough comprehensive gum disease examination.

To learn more about oral systemic health and measure your oral health, download Dr. Vanama’s FREE educational eBook — Dentistry for Total Body Wellness.

Call us at 425- 295-7975 to schedule your gum disease examination at your regular exam and cleaning.

See our article in the June issue of Connections, a monthly community newspaper published by Issaquah Highlands Council.