An article in the Journal of Periodontology lists nine risk factors for tooth loss due to periodontal (gum) disease, which is the nation’s leading cause of tooth loos.

Risk factors include:
Being over the age of 35
Being a male
Never getting professional dental care
Never using a toothbrush
Smoking
Having diabetes
Having high blood pressure
Having rheumatoid arthritis

Although age and gender are unchangeable, decisions to not brush your teeth or to smoke, for example, are something you can control.

Why should you worry about gum disease? In addition to causing tooth loss, oral bacteria can enter then bloodstream through tears in diseased tissues in the mouth. Once bloodborne, this bacteria can trigger an inflammatory reaction elsewhere in the body.

The bacteria of gum disease has been linked to heart disease, stroke, memory loss, preterm babies, arthritis, diabetes, and even impotency.

If you aren’t concerned about losing teeth, then these additional health risks should get your attention. Treating gum disease before it becomes severe can be done comfortably and affordably. Payment options are available for those without dental insurance.

Gum disease will only worsen without treatment. Call (828) 274-9440 if you have tender, sore gums that are red in color rather than a healthy pink. You need to be seen promptly.

The World Health Organization wants you to cut down on the amount of sugar you’re consuming. Of particular concern, WHO said, is the role sugar plays in causing dental diseases. The challenge, however, is that sugar can be so addictive, it has been compared to opium.

From 1950 to 2000, the USDA says American consumption of sugar increased 39%. On average, Americans consume about three pounds of sugar every week.

However, some of our sugar addiction may have developed without our knowledge. This occurred, in some cases, because consumers demanded foods that were lower in fat. Therefore, manufacturers lowered the fat while substituting sugar to preserve the taste.

Some manufacturers add sugars in forms other than high fructose corn sugars to sweeten foods and beverages. These include honey, syrups, fruit juices and fruit concentrates; still sugar in these forms. The American population also unknowingly consumes sugars that are ‘hidden’ in processed foods. For example, you’ll find sugar in frozen pizza, yogurt, mayonnaise, catsup, bread and many soups.

Recommended daily intake is actually six teaspoons a day, or about the amount in a can of regular soda. So, how do you wean yourself off of sugar? Begin by reading labels, of everything! For every sugar gram, multiply by four to get the sugar calories per serving.

Then, begin lowering your amount of sugar on a daily basis. Drink plain water with meals rather than a can of soda. Each month, adjust your diet so you are moving away from sugar in any form.

Sugar creates the worst onset on oral bacteria of anything you can consume. Protect your smile and your overall health by making simple changes on a gradual basis. You’ll find it’s easier than you may think!

Although many adults feel that brushing their teeth twice a day is sufficient for maintaining a healthy mouth, these measures fall short of preventing cavities and gum disease. It is estimated that only 12% of the adult population in the U. S. floss their teeth daily. Additionally, many adults fail to keep their 6-month dental hygiene appointments, using a rationale of “if it doesn’t hurt, nothing is wrong.”

In a developed country such as the United States, it’s amazing that so many people have some level of periodontal (gum) disease, nearly half of all adults over the age of 30. The bacteria of gum disease not only contributes to cavities and tooth loss, it causes an inflammatory reaction in the body and has been linked to heart disease, stroke, memory loss, arthritis, preterm babies and impotency.

Now, research has shown a link between gum disease and diabetes. It’s yet to be determined where the connection begins. Further research is needed to pinpoint if one disease causes the other. However, considering that there are more than 25 million adults who are diabetic, the need for continued study is important.

On the positive side, it has been shown that once diabetics improve their periodontal health, they can also improve the complications of diabetes and even the control of blood sugar.

As studies continue on health problems related to gum disease and diabetes, remember that preventing the disease is easier and less expensive than treating it. If you have been less than diligent with your daily and flossing regimen or have delayed regular dental check-ups, a periodontal exam is warranted. Call (828) 274-9440 to arrange this first step to a healthier smile and healthier you, overall!

Research continues to show how a healthy mouth relates to your overall health. For example, a recent study of 3,000 individuals in Sweden showed those with gum disease and missing teeth had greater than 11 times the risk for breast cancer. Past studies have already associated gum disease with heart disease, stroke, pancreatic cancer, and premature babies.

Gum disease begins with the formation of plaque, a bacterial film on the teeth and gums. As gum disease progresses, it can lead to bad breath, tender and bleeding gums, and eventual tooth loss. Gum disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss.

Although poor oral hygiene or failure to have regular dental cleanings are frequently blamed for gum disease, other factors can contribute. These include genetics, certain health problems that affect the immune system (leukemia, diabetes, AIDS, etc.), medical conditions or treatments that deplete saliva, smoking, stress, and diet.

To combat gum disease, your level of gum disease is first established. Naturally, the sooner it is treated, the less time and expense is required. Treatment may involve deep cleaning below the gum line, gum surgery, bone grafts and antibiotics.

If you suspect you have gum disease, it will only worsen without treatment. Call (828) 274-9440 promptly for a complete examination and treatment recommendations. Restoring your mouth to a healthy state is a positive way to avoid the risk for more serious health issues.