Periodontal Disease is a serious condition characterized by bleeding, inflamed, red, sore gums, and is often accompanied by bad breath. Periodontal Disease, also known as Gum Disease, usually starts when proper brushing and flossing techniques are not utilized consistently.
A bacterial infection starts in the gum tissue when a person neglects their daily hygiene schedule. When food and sugar particles are left on the teeth and gums, plaque forms as the food breaks down and toxic bacteria is released.
Plaque is a mixture of food, saliva and bacteria. As plaque sits on the gums it can form pockets of bacteria colonizing in the gum tissue. This colonization process causes the body to kick in it's immune response to try to fight the disease that is forming.
As the body starts fighting the disease that is growing in the gums, they start to turn red and inflammation occurs. The inflammation causes the gums to pull away from the teeth and also causes the bone that surrounds the tooth to erode. The presence of Calculus (Hardened Plaque) can only increase the effects of inflammation and irritation. All of this is quite concerning, but what most people don't know is how it affects the rest of the body.
The Significance of Periodontal Disease in the Body
Research indicates that Periodontal Disease is often linked to many systemic diseases and other health related issues. As our body becomes infected, due to the intake of bacteria from the mouth, our immune response goes into overdrive and works hard to remove the infection. Infection in the body causes inflammation which is the body's first line of defense. If inflammation gets out of control it kills healthy tissue. Our body's immune response is weakened as our body continues to work hard at removing bad material and the inflammation gets out of hand.
Not only is this bacteria ingested, but it is also inhaled. All of this incoming toxic bacteria into our body, over a long period of time, can break it down. Our body doesn't build an immunity to this type of bacteria, so it only gets worse. The bacteria eventually breaks down the barriers and is able to infect our lungs, bloodstream and other areas of our body.
Periodontal Disease is the biggest reason why patients should see the dentist. Avoiding the condition at all costs is the best way to ensure a healthier life with less difficulties. Periodontal Disease can cause other health issues, but also other health issues can cause Periodontal Disease. Dentists can find the disease in the earliest stages and help fix, or control, the problem before it gets out of hand.
Please contact us with any questions at 281-492-6064.
