Gum disease can cause chronic discomfort, and it can have devastating effects on your smile. But you may be surprised to learn that the condition can have far more serious – even life-threatening – consequences.
Gum disease, or periodontitis, has been linked to heart disease and a higher risk for heart attack and stroke. Fortunately, at Austin Laser Dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale offers state-of-the-art periodontal treatment. Not only can timely intervention save your smile; it could even save your life!
If you are suffering from gum disease, don’t delay treatment. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.
What is gum disease?
When plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, they provide a food source for oral bacteria. In turn, microbes will proliferate, eventually moving down into your gums. In this early stage, known as gingivitis, you may experience some redness and mild inflammation. Fortunately, with treatment, gingivitis is reversible.
As the bacteria continue to multiply, they will create pockets in your gums, and the soft tissues will start to pull away. At this point, you may suffer from bleeding and significant discomfort. If gum disease goes unchecked, your teeth will eventually loosen and come out.
Gum disease is incredibly common, affecting an estimated 47.2% of American adults over age 30.
Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease
Alarmingly, individuals with periodontal disease are two to three times more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke. Researchers note that certain risk factors, such as smoking and a poor diet, can increase your risk for both gum and heart disease.
At the same time, they also believe that gum disease by itself could affect your cardiovascular health. Periodontitis leads to chronic inflammation, and inflammation is a contributing factor to the build up of fat and cholesterol in the arteries.
Furthermore, for patients with heart valve disease, periodontitis is even more of a concern. For these individuals, oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and move to the heart. Infection of the heart valves can then set in.
Gum Disease Treatment and Your Overall Health
Although there is no certain proof that gum disease treatment will prevent heart disease, there is no doubt that periodontal care will protect your teeth and oral health. Plus, since early intervention can reverse gingivitis, it is important to seek treatment in the initial stages.
Dr. Ragsdale can treat all phases of gum disease. During scaling and root planing, she will use a laser to eliminate bacteria and smooth the dental roots, removing crevasses which can harbor bacteria.
She can also perform a bone graft, gum graft, or guided tissue regeneration to restore tissue lost to more advanced stages of gum disease.
Our dental lasers allow for minimally invasive treatment with less discomfort and a faster recovery.
Contact Us to Schedule Periodontal Care
At Austin Laser Dentist, we are committed to your total wellbeing. To learn more about the link between oral and cardiovascular health, contact our office today. Book an appointment online or give us a call at (512) 346-4690.
