- INTRODUCTION
Gum disease is a common problem that affects many people, especially adults over 30. According to a 2012 CDC study, almost half of American adults in that age group suffer from it. The early signs are often missed because the condition can develop slowly and without pain. Ignoring gum disease, however, can result in major health issues that extend beyond your mouth.
- HOW GUM DISEASE STARTS
Gum disease begins with plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. These contain bacteria that release harmful toxins. A dds (Doctor of Dental Surgery) can help detect early signs and provide treatment before the condition worsens. These toxins damage the gums and the bones that support your teeth, which can lead to tooth loss and constant inflammation.
Most young people don’t feel pain or notice any symptoms early on. But as you get older—usually in your 30s or 40s—the signs become clearer.
- COMMON SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASE
- Bad breath
- Swollen or red gums
- Bleeding when brushing or flossing
- Pain while chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
In the beginning, gum disease is called gingivitis, which is gum inflammation. If not treated, it can develop into periodontitis, a more serious condition. Once periodontitis starts, it cannot be reversed—only controlled. Even worse, it can lead to other dangerous health issues.
- HEART DISEASE
Gum disease causes long-term inflammation, which can harm healthy cells. Studies have shown a strong link between poor dental hygiene and heart disease:
- Heart disease is three times as common in people with gum disease.
- It can raise blood pressure and reduce the effectiveness of medicine for high blood pressure.
- One study found that gum disease raises the risk of heart attacks by 49%.
Treating gum disease may even help lower blood pressure, giving hope for more research in this area.
- DIABETES
Bacteria in the gums feed on sugar. High blood sugar helps these bacteria grow faster, which worsens gum infections. At the same time, gum disease can increase blood sugar levels, making diabetes harder to control. This creates a harmful cycle for people with diabetes.
- RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
A specific bacterium found in gum disease, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, is also found in people with rheumatoid arthritis. This bacterium triggers the immune system to overreact, causing painful joint inflammation.
- ALZHEMIER’S DISEASE
Research has discovered Porphyromonas gingivalis, a bacterium from gum disease, in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. This suggests that gum infections may raise the risk of developing this serious memory-related disease.
- PNEUMONIA AND LUNG ISSUES
Gum disease can keep your immune system active, causing inflammation in the lungs and airways. This increases the risk of conditions like asthma, COPD, and pneumonia. People with gum disease may also be more vulnerable to severe COVID-19 symptoms.
- CONCLUSION
Taking care of your gums is not just about keeping your smile healthy—it also protects your whole body. Regular dental visits, brushing, and flossing can help prevent gum disease and avoid these serious health issues. You can avoid a lot of problems later by being proactive now.