You are committed to improving your health. You exercise faithfully and try to eat foods that are good for you. Have you thought about your dental health and how it affects your overall condition?
Taking care of your gums can have a tremendous impact on other areas of your health. Gum disease often begins in our 30’s and 40’s and is more common in men than women. It is important to understand that gum disease can cause you to have several serious health complications, including heart disease, trouble controlling blood sugar, and the potential for delivering premature babies.
Studies have shown that bad bacteria is present in your mouth when you have gum disease. This bacteria can enter your blood stream and put you at high risk for heart attack and stroke. Some researchers have collected data that seems to show that people with gum disease may be twice as likely to have heart disease compared to those with healthy gums. The bacteria due to gum disease can cause changes in your blood sugar levels as well. The American Academy of Peridontology states that this may lead to the development of diabetes, and that it definitely can worsen symptoms in people who already have diabetes.
In pregnant women, studies show that the bacteria can contribute to the development of pre-eclampsia, a condition which causes a life-threatening increase in blood pressure. The Journal of Pregnancy suggests that studies show an increased risk of low birth weight in women with gum disease.
Fortunately, there are things that you can do to improve your gum health. The simplest and perhaps most effective option is to brush your teeth at least twice each day and use dental floss and plastic dental picks each day. You can also use mouthwash that is specifically formulated to assist in gum health. There are both prescription and over-the-counter options for these mouthwashes. If you already have signs of gum disease, there are prescription medications that can help reverse and control the problem. More advanced gum disease can be treated with surgery.
Each day, you make a conscious decision to do positive things for your body. Make sure that you seriously consider adding gum health to your daily routine. The best workout and diet program alone cannot prevent the damage caused by serious gum disease. What will it cost you and your family if you develop heart disease, blood sugar issues such as diabetes, or the delivery of a premature baby Your optimum health is in your hands- and your mouth! Take care of yourself so that you can have a positive impact on everyone around to you.
