You know it’s important to take care of your teeth and gums to prevent tooth loss and other issues, but did you know that your oral health can affect your overall wellbeing? That’s right – and recent research suggests that having gum disease, or a chronic infection in the gum tissue, may put you at risk for a number of health issues, including high blood pressure. Keep reading to learn more about this connection and steps you can take to protect your health by preventing gum disease in Bonita Springs.
The Link Between Gum Disease and High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the pressure that blood puts on the walls of the arteries. Keeping it at the right levels is important for preventing heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.
Unfortunately, numerous studies have shown that gum disease (or periodontitis) is a significant risk factor for high blood pressure. The exact cause has yet to be identified, but the link is certainly strong. One study found that people who exhibited moderate levels of gum disease were 22% more likely to also have gum disease.
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Red, inflamed gum tissue
- Bleeding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Gum recession
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Missing teeth (in later stages)
How to Prevent Gum Disease
The good news is that it is completely possible to prevent gum disease through regular preventive attention.
Taking excellent care of your teeth at home by brushing twice daily and flossing daily (or even more often) are critical steps. Performed routinely, these oral hygiene practices go a long way in preventing plaque and tartar buildup that leads to cavities and gum disease.
In addition to brushing and flossing at home, make sure to visit your dentist twice a year (or as often as recommended) for a checkup and cleaning. These regular visits help to ensure that smaller problems are detected before they become large issues. Like cavities, gum disease is much easier to treat in the beginning stages.
Now that you know a little more about how gum disease can affect your heart health, it’s a great time to reach out to your dentist to schedule a routine visit. No matter how much time has passed since your last appointment, your dental team will never judge – they can’t wait to see you and help you achieve excellent oral and overall health!
Meet the Practice
The team at Pelican Landing Dental consists of seven excellent dentists who bring over a century of experience to your care. Rather than getting just one dentist, you can count on a team of experts to help guide your treatment plan. Each professional stays at the cutting edge of their field by engaging in regular continuing education. To learn more about the team or to schedule an appointment for periodontal care, reach out via their website or by calling your dentist in Bonita Springs at (239) 948-2111.
